Sol Bread and Wine brings the soul of an Italian village streetscape into North Sydney’s Walker Street Precinct. Located beneath Aqualand’s AURA residential development, it is one of four hospitality venues shaping this new, vibrant destination. Drawing on the spirit of Italian modernism, layered streetscapes, and classic paninoteca culture, the venue evokes warmth, sociability, and effortless sophistication.

The design is anchored by a sculptural, carved timber bar; a central feature that invites casual connection and serves as both a visual and functional focal point. Behind it, full-height timber shelving is stacked with artisanal bread and bottles of wine, reinforcing the venue’s focus on life’s simple pleasures. Throughout the space, richly textured materials create depth and warmth: contrasting marbles, rustic plaster walls, and a nostalgic geometric stone floor nod to European traditions, while pistachio and espresso-toned furniture introduces playful modernity.

A striking Venetian red spiral stair, finished in high-gloss lacquer, punctuates the space with bold energy and movement, an expressive gesture that elevates the venue’s character while subtly guiding circulation. These layered elements combine to support a unique day-to-night offering: the venue functions as a bright, inviting café in the morning and transforms into a moody, intimate wine bar by evening. This dual personality maximises functionality, allowing the space to serve a wide range of patrons and moods throughout the day.

Creativity is evident in how the design captures a sense of nostalgia while remaining distinctly contemporary. The interplay between rich, tactile materials and dynamic colours ensures a setting that feels both curated and relaxed. Every detail, from the layering of shelves to the expressive flooring, has been designed to spark curiosity and conversation.

Sustainability is woven into the design approach through the use of natural, durable, and low-impact materials. Timber, stone, and plaster finishes are not only environmentally responsible but also selected for their ability to age gracefully, contributing to the venue’s long-term appeal. This considered material palette, combined with a flexible spatial layout, ensures longevity and adaptability.

Sol Bread and Wine contributes meaningfully to the broader precinct vision, helping transform an urban corner into a bustling, community-oriented hub. As the sister venue to Soluna, it complements the precinct’s emerging identity: vibrant, diverse, and culturally resonant. Together, the venues create a destination that encourages lingering, gathering, and discovery.

By layering tradition with modern expression, functionality with warmth, and sustainability with design excellence, Sol Bread and Wine exemplifies a new standard in hospitality design. It enriches the local streetscape and offers a space where locals and visitors alike can gather, connect, and enjoy the rhythm of village life.