Italy is famous for its character-filled and inviting eating spaces, that not only pack a punch gastronomically but also visually with old-world charm and charisma. When walking into Pentolina on Little Collins Street Melbourne, you could easily be excused for believing that you were wandering into a traditional pasta restaurant in Rome.    

This is exactly what the owners of this delightful Italian restaurant wanted – a prestigious Italian restaurant that transported customers with the allure visiting Italy has to offer. This called for some clever design concepts and bespoke joinery that could transform the century-old building into a sophisticated and stylish Italian restaurant.   

Complimenting the historic building with custom handcrafted furniture and joinery maintains the warmth and history of an authentic Italian handmade pasta bar. The rustic edges of exposed brick and concrete balance the modern touches of wooden panelling and sweeping benches. 

 The long double-curved steel counter and the canopy was handcrafted offsite by our skilled team and transported and fitted in one single piece, setting the stage for an open and fresh pasta station. It’s open, light, and inviting, the perfect place to pull up a stool and enjoy a glass of red with your favourite pasta dish. The front clad in Porta Tasmanian Oak Scotia with scalloped mouldings – all hand cut – add to that authentic flare of the over design. Varnished and sealed off-site and individually fitted to the bar and waiter stations. It pairs perfectly with the Karaman Pink Marble to give a timeless effect.   

The maroon tones accentuate the time-honoured Italian feel of the space, with walls and seating matching to allow the space to ground and flow. Tiled splashbacks also add the element of tradition. The exposed pipework and lighting intensify the stunning rustic elements that celebrate the historic flair of the space.

 Different textures certainly make this space a visual masterpiece, with the old and rustic meeting the new and glossy. A perfect example of how clever design and custom joinery can bring the old back to life, while carefully caring for the overall character and charm of the dwelling.