Via Porta is an Italian eatery and deli located in Melbourne, Australia that carries a lot of family history. Studio Esteta designed this interior to reflect the years spent cooking with the co-director, Sarah Cosentino’s, Italian Grandmother. The interior acts as an outdoor market, café and deli while representing Italian aesthetic. With the combination of natural stone flooring, plaster surfaces and wood throughout, guests are able to have an experience during their visit and enjoy each individual ingredients needed to make the food.

 The Arches are a main ceiling feature that can be appreciated. Covered in plaster, the arches are a detail that emphasizes the deli. By the deli are stocked wood shelves with cooking necessities raised on a white subway tile platform. Simple circular basket trays are mounted on the wall above which harmonizes with the curves of the space. Above the deli is a mezzanine with more seating looking over the main floor, adding extra volume to the space.

As one of the main features of Via Porta, the bar is off to the side as to not demand too much attention. The bar front is made up of concave timber wood slats for texture, complimenting the natural stone flooring. A slim dark edge separates the overhang and the base for a bit of contrast. The countertop is made up of a veiny marble and works well with the natural finishes surrounding. Throughout the space, a sage-green is present and shown through the bar stools and banquette seating, nodding to the natural materials. For a little Italian culture, artisan made, and gold accessories are placed on shelves in front of the plaster wall. White globe light fixtures are mounted on a suspended tube, floating above the bar for a mood lifting ambiance.

To the right of the entrance is a tufted sage-green banquette that draws your eye in. Above, are three circular sconces, highlighting simplicity and letting the natural finishes and soft hue stand out. Wood curved, bistro style chairs paired with meek, black pedestal and wood tables, define the main dining area in Via Porta. A small nook in this eatery is filled with a white credenza. The accessories are all carefully placed as this nook has asymmetrical balance in the tabletop pieces and artwork. To make this space more personable, vintage family photos are framed in this space.

The exterior of the Via Porta illustrates what is displayed on the interior. An off-white textured façade with large windows and glass door to let the outside peer in. The signage in black and an awning make for a very charming setting, representing Italian street signs. Via Porta that translates to “by door”, is an acknowledgement to the extension of their family owned Italian kitchen to the public like an open door.