2025 Gallery
Winner: Best Bar Design
SJB for Bar Julius
6 Baptist Street
Redfern, NSW
Situated in Wunderlich Lane at the entry of The EVE Hotel Sydney and part of the broader Surry Hills Village precinct, the design for Bar Julius layers classic materials with a playful, modern twist, creating a colourful, kaleidoscopic space that feels both timeless and full of energy.
Jury Citation
Bar Julius is a masterclass in atmosphere, versatility and placemaking – earning it the title of Best Bar Design. Seamlessly transitioning from breakfast cafe to evening cocktail bar, it caters to every mood and moment, whether it’s a quiet solo drink, a lively gathering or a morning coffee with the paper. The space offers a rich variety of seating experiences, each with its own character, enhancing the sense of intimacy and discovery. Its vaulted ceiling is a standout feature, evoking the charm of an old European cellar while feeling entirely fresh. Rich, local elements – like red gum flooring and Australian artwork – ground the design in its context, creating a uniquely Australian take on the classic hotel bar. Bar Julius exudes a sense of occasion without pretension, welcoming both hotel guests and locals alike. It’s elegant, layered and considered –everything a great bar should be.
