A Coastal Sensibility: Rosa by Pattern Studio

Designed by Pattern Studio, Rosa is the latest addition to Sydney’s Northern Beaches restaurant scene. Evoking feelings and memories of much-loved meals, destinations, and atmospheres from warm-climate coastal regions across the globe, the interior draws inspiration from Tulum in Mexico—and, more broadly—the coastal destinations as far-reaching as Puglia, Mykonos and Mallorca.

Details such as the bar’s patterned floor, featuring exquisite Italian tumbled stone tiles, and natural plaster rendered walls, conjure visions of the Mediterranean. Sumptuous curves in the bar evoke a Spanish sensibility—reminiscent of the organic forms celebrated across islands like Ibiza or Mallorca. Rendered joinery speaks to the elegant resort-style of Mexican locales Tulum and Oaxaca City.

On the lofty and light-filled first floor, ample space is coupled with nearly all-white finishes, offering a significant contrast to the cosier, more textured sandstone and concrete space below. Illumination is offered by way of oversized pendants from Ay Illuminate and hand-made ceramic wall sconces from Porch Ceramics. Furniture throughout is a slightly eclectic mix—blonde timber classics from Thonet sit alongside more sculptural teak and rattan dining chairs. Cacti and chillies bring colour, form, and texture to the space.

Rosa in Mona Vale by Pattern Studio. Photo by Tom Ross.

Ground Floor Plan by Pattern Studio.

First Floor Plan by Pattern Studio.

Working with a heritage site, Pattern’s fit-out is designed to complement the building’s original details such as sandstone walls and leadlight windows, with no new element of the space competing uncomfortably for attention. The interior palette overall is fresh and light, whiting out the building’s timber joists and floorboards helps to balance the heft brought by the golden sandstone prevalent throughout the ground floor.

Boundaries blur between the front and back of the house, offering diners glimpses into the kitchen and showcasing features such as the epic wood-fired oven. Pickled and preserved exotic ingredients sit proudly on display in oversized-glass vats, bringing an authentic celebration of Mexican cuisine to the interior. Margaritas are always on ice at this elegant eatery oozing with resort-style charm.