Cox Architecture envisioned a sophisticated take on the lively and colorful dining culture of Columbia and greater South America in the design of Cumbia Bar & Kitchen in Adelaide.

Cumbia Bar & Kitchen is a South American tapas bar located within the Adelaide Central Market with a Grote Street façade entry. The intimate 51sqm bar & kitchen is centrally divided by monolithic concrete rendered counters with an extensively fitted exposed commercial kitchen on one side and casual patron dining to the other.

With a fusion of traditional South American patterning and contemporary design the interior features a large green mosaic, wrapping wall and floor, which sets off a textural and tonal contrast against the restored exposed heritage brick work. The suspended overhead steel shelving is set to house and display cascading living plants and South American objects and ornament. The space works almost like a tunnel, sunlit, light and spacious at the Grote Street end, narrowing through the bar area and channelling views and patrons into the life and bustle of the market stalls beyond.

Warm, vibrant, natural materials are used throughout. Jungle like, the deep green of the paint changes colour through the course of the day as the light moves across it. Great attention has been given to details like leather bag handles, the earthy finish of the ceramic pendant lights, and the exquisite finish of the rendered bar, which give it, especially when combined with the heritage brick of the larger market, such warmth.

Design: Cox Architecture Photography: Sia Duff

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