In a striking blend of pink plywood and visible insulation, this monochromatic bar in Sydney captures the inviting essence of Tokyo’s mid-century listening bars, thanks to the creative vision of local architecture firm Akin Atelier. Kelvin Ho, founder of the studio, crafted the JAM Record Bar for Justin Hemmes, the head of the Merivale hospitality group, who also has ties to the music label JAM Recordings.
This establishment is a heartfelt endeavor for Hemmes and his sister Bettina, named in honor of their parents, John and Merivale, who utilized the JAM label for various projects alongside their thriving hospitality enterprise. The inspiration for the bar blossomed from a journey to Japan, where Hemmes and Ho immersed themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo’s renowned listening bars.
Nestled at a bustling corner of George Street in the heart of the city, this cozy 80-square-metre venue accommodates 45 guests and boasts an impressive collection of 15,000 vinyl records, complete with a DJ booth. Previously a retail space, the bar features expansive windows that open up to the lively streets, and the outdoor seating enhances the connection to the vibrant surroundings.
Despite its compact dimensions, Ho and his team have skillfully crafted distinct areas centered around a main bar. At the back, a cozy nook with low seating exudes an intimate lounge vibe, while the primary bar area is equipped with tall stools and standing space.
Ho characterized the decor as “uncomplicated and tactile yet sophisticated,” achieved through a straightforward material palette that includes cork, plywood, and readily available insulation.
The unique color palette of JAM Record Bar stems from a deliberate material selection by Akin Atelier, aimed at enhancing the space’s acoustic qualities. Exposed pink fiberglass insulation panels from New Zealand’s Pink Batts are showcased within the ceiling framework instead of being hidden behind plasterboard.
This vibrant pink shade is present across the ceiling, walls, and all custom plywood furnishings, including the bar, the record library, and the geometric stools designed for both indoor and outdoor use. A retro ambiance permeates the space, thanks to the selection of vintage lighting fixtures and decor curated by Merivale’s styling director Bettina Hemmes and design director Nasim Koerting.
Neon signs in the windows pay homage to the bar’s Japanese influences, while midcentury-style elements, such as the entrance featuring a grid of circular windows, evoke the golden era of vinyl records in the 1950s and 60s.
JAM Record Bar presents a menu of Japanese-inspired snacks crafted by chef Michael Fox from Merivale’s Sushi E restaurant, alongside drinks expertly mixed by the company’s creative cocktail lead, James Irvine.