TBR: The design of a restaurant plays a pivotal role in setting the mood and crafting a memorable dining experience. Can you share the design brief for Lars?

LK: Lars Bar & Grill aims to create a modern dining experience that feels warm and welcoming from the moment guests walk in.

The design should evoke a sense of connection to the nearby beach while maintaining a timeless appeal.

We wanted to emphasise abundant natural light to create an inviting atmosphere and incorporate coastal elements that reflect the restaurant’s proximity to the beach.

The colour palette consisted of sandy beige and soft earth tones to replicate a beach environment, while a hint of maroon from our branding adds vibrancy and colour.

We used terracotta tiles and natural travertine to establish an earthy tone, complemented by soft sand textures in the render and the carpet was designed to mimic the appearance of water along the shore on a sunny day.

The design of Lars Bar & Grill seamlessly blends coastal influences with a warm and welcoming environment, ensuring a memorable dining experience for every guest.

TBR: Did you work with an interior designer?

LK: Yes, we worked with an interior designer for this project. We collected a lot of inspiration from mood boards, colors, and styles on Pinterest.

We then shared our ideas with BDA Architecture and collaborated with Daniel Veitch from Dankav to refine them.

Jas from Three Balls Red was key in helping us select and match materials like travertine, tiles, carpet, and shelving. My wife chose all the tables, chairs, decor, and final touches to complete the overall look.

TBR: What were some of your inspirations when it came to the design/styling, and what do you consider to be the stand out design elements of the space?

LK: Our inspirations for the design came from a mix of coastal aesthetics and modern elegance. We drew a lot of ideas from mood boards on Pinterest, focusing on soft, sandy colours and natural materials that evoke the beach atmosphere.

The standout design elements include the large windows that flood the space with sunlight, creating a warm and inviting ambiance; the use of travertine flooring and sandy-hued tiles that reflect the beach’s natural beauty; the soft earth tones accented by hints of maroon from our branding, adding a unique touch; the carefully chosen tables and chairs that blend comfort with style, enhancing the overall dining experience and finally, a vibrant restroom featuring bold maroon tiles and peachy basins, offering a playful contrast to the main dining area.

These elements work together to create a cohesive and memorable environment that truly captures the essence of our coastal location.

TBR: You’ve described Lars as ‘Gold Coast style’ which is perhaps more laid-back and approachable than venues in Sydney and Melbourne. How did you want people to feel in your space?

LK: We envisioned Lars Bar & Grill as a place where guests can truly relax and unwind, embodying that laid-back Gold Coast vibe. Our goal was to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home, whether they’re popping in for a casual lunch or enjoying a special dinner.

We position ourselves to deliver quality food made from fine ingredients in a relaxed setting. We want people to feel comfortable and at ease, surrounded by a design that reflects the beauty of the coast.

The blend of natural light, earthy materials, and soft colours encourages a sense of tranquility. Ultimately, we aim for guests to leave feeling refreshed and inspired, with a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of the Gold Coast lifestyle.

TBR: Who is the Lars customer? 

LK: The Lars Bar & Grill customer is diverse, reflecting the relaxed yet quality-driven ethos of the Gold Coast. Our patrons range from locals looking for a casual yet refined dining experience to visitors seeking fresh local culinary offerings.

They appreciate quality food made from fine ingredients and enjoy dining in a welcoming environment. This includes families, couples on date nights, friends celebrating special occasions, and professionals looking for a laid-back spot for lunch or dinner.

Ultimately, our customers value a balance of quality and relaxation, wanting to enjoy great food in an inviting atmosphere that captures the essence of coastal living.

TBR: How has Lars been received so far?

LK: Lars Bar & Grill has been received exceptionally well so far!

Guests have expressed their appreciation for the warm and welcoming atmosphere, highlighting the modern coastal design that makes them feel right at home.

The quality of the food has also garnered positive feedback, with many praising the use of fresh, fine ingredients and the attention to detail in each dish.

Customers enjoy the laid-back vibe while still experiencing a touch of fine dining, which sets us apart in the area. Overall, the response has been encouraging, and we’re thrilled to see people enjoying their time at Lars Bar & Grill and returning for more.

TBR: Can you share a highlight thus far since opening your own restaurant after so many years of working with Simon Gloftis?

LK: A highlight since opening has been the incredible support I’ve received from Simon. Working with him has been a true pleasure; he’s been a fantastic mentor throughout this journey.

Transitioning from working for someone else to running my own restaurant has been a completely different experience. There are so many factors to consider, and it’s essential to ensure everything meets our standards and expectations.

We’re committed to delivering the level of quality we envision, and every day feels like a learning journey. We’re dedicated to continuous improvement—there’s always more to achieve, improve and enhance.