The fitout for Starward Whisky's distillery in Port Melbourne was a collaborative effort with the owner, David Vitalle, to create a space that combined functional distilling with an exceptional hospitality experience. The design aimed to pay homage to the whisky-making process, incorporating unique materials and features that tied into the brand’s identity. One of the standout elements was the custom-built bar and exceptionally large table and bar tops, made from centuries-old French oak foudres—massive barrels once used for aging wine. These barrels, some towering over two stories, were carefully dismantled, and the timber was machined to create the magnificent bar tops you see in the venue. The scale and thickness of the timber are truly impressive, and it's worth taking a moment to appreciate these details next time you visit. 

In a creative twist, the steel hoops that once held the barrels together were repurposed and integrated into the space, becoming rings for the festoon lighting—another subtle tribute to the distillery’s heritage. The welcoming entry was crafted from the disassembled barrel staves, woven together in a striking pattern. Polished concrete floors, concrete stands for the vats, and other high-quality finishes contributed to the industrial-chic feel of the venue. This project perfectly blended the past and the present, offering a space that’s not only functional but also a true reflection of Starward’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design.