Supa Fama: A Steampunk Garden Dining Experience

Shelley Mock's Award-Winning Restaurant Design Unveiled

Shelley Mock's Supa Fama stands out as a culinary oasis in the heart of a bustling city. The design concept marries the mechanical with the natural, creating a space that is both a visual spectacle and a comfortable dining haven. The steampunk aesthetic, inspired by the legendary Hanging Gardens of Babylon, offers patrons a unique escape, transporting them to an era where the wonders of human innovation and the beauty of nature coalesce seamlessly.

At the core of Supa Fama's ethos is a commitment to sustainability and education on the virtues of farm-to-table dining. The restaurant's design reflects this philosophy, incorporating elements of a greenhouse to showcase the journey from micro food production to the diner's plate. The space invites engagement with its verdant surroundings, sparking dialogue on the sources and quality of our food.

The realization of Supa Fama's design hinges on the interplay between enduring materials and the transient beauty of plant life. Iron and reclaimed timber age gracefully, while the plants grow and evolve, creating a dynamic environment that celebrates both permanence and change. This contrast is a testament to the design's depth and the thoughtful consideration of life cycles within the space.

Spanning 950 square meters over two levels, Supa Fama's layout is meticulously crafted for an immersive dining experience. The ground floor, with its open kitchen and bar, flows into a courtyard teeming with greenery, while the mezzanine offers a bird's-eye view of the gastronomic theatre below. The restaurant's technical specifications are a blueprint for harmonious functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Supa Fama's design encourages interaction and movement. The bar, with its inviting horseshoe shape, serves as the social hub, while the dining hall's central courtyard, adorned with a lush 'river' of plants, becomes the heart of the restaurant. The strategic placement of steel posts guides patrons and staff alike, ensuring a seamless dining experience amidst the garden-like setting.

The design journey of Supa Fama, from concept to completion, spanned 10 months, culminating in a soft opening in February 2023. The project's research delved into creating a consistent brand identity across various locations, focusing on a connection to nature and a healthy lifestyle. Overcoming the challenge of integrating a garden atmosphere within an indoor mall setting, the design team innovatively balanced high-intensity plant lighting with a warm ambiance for diners.

Supa Fama's design narrative is a testament to Shelley Mock's vision of blending historical themes with a contemporary approach to dining. The restaurant's success is further solidified by its Golden A' Design Award in Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design, a recognition of its exceptional design that significantly impacts the art, design, and culinary worlds.