Vin Populi Next Door: Cozy Italian Wine Bar by Rezen Studio in Fremantle

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Modern urban cafe with large glass windows displaying a stylish interior, wooden floors and contemporary decor, perfectly suited for architectural projects and interior design inspiration

In the historic West End of Fremantle, where heritage architecture intertwines with evolving hospitality, Rezen Studio continues to shape the design of Western Australia. After successfully transforming the original Vin Populi restaurant, the firm presents an enchanting sister venue: Vin Populi Next Door — a dark, richly textured wine bar that reinterprets the essence of Italian wine bars within a contemporary Australian context.

A Darker and More Intimate Interpretation

At just 50 square meters, Vin Populi Next Door is small in size but deeply impactful in atmosphere. Designed as an additional space and standalone bar, the interior evokes a nostalgic ambiance reminiscent of the original restaurant but leans into a darker and more atmospheric direction. Rezen Studio masterfully combines cork cladding, deep green marble, and aged finishes to create a sense of established atmosphere — inviting guests to feel secluded.

The space is inspired by traditional Italian wine bars, with a cozy spatial layout and graphic wall elements that reference the branding of both establishments. Dim lighting and an atmospheric palette create a dramatic contrast with the lighter interiors of the main restaurant, establishing a unique yet connected identity.

Materials and Ambiance

What sets Vin Populi Next Door apart is its curation of materials, including:

Dark-stained cork covering walls with a soft, cozy effect
Lush green marble countertops reminiscent of classic Italian design
Graphic details and integrated branding harmoniously woven into the interior
Subtle patina on elements that enhance a refined, luxurious feel

The result is an immersive, textural space that blends modern hospitality trends with timeless atmosphere.

Expanded Yet Independent Space

Although created as an extension of the main Vin Populi restaurant, Next Door functions fully as a standalone venue — suitable for use as a wine bar, private dining room, or casual drinking spot. This flexibility aligns with the shifts in hospitality design that emerged post-pandemic, where small, distinctive spaces are especially in demand.

Design That Reinforces Branding

The continuity of branding, spatial rhythm, and materials between the two Vin Populi locations highlights Rezen Studio's skill in crafting a cohesive design experience. Instead of repeating the original, they offer a subtle evolution — deepening the story and strengthening brand consistency. The bold contrast of light versus dark, new versus old makes Next Door familiar yet refreshingly fresh.

About Rezen Studio

Rezen Studio, led by designer Zenifa Bowring, is an interior architecture firm based in Perth, known for high-impact projects in hospitality, retail, and residential spaces. Their work values materiality, place, and emotional connection — evident in the immersive tactile quality and hidden narrative behind Vin Populi Next Door.

Conclusion

Vin Populi Next Door proves how small spaces can make a big impact. By filtering the soul of Italian wine bars through a modern Australian lens, Rezen Studio elevates hospitality in Fremantle once again. It's more than just an expansion — it's a design destination, inviting intimacy, curiosity, and interaction.