Hamsi Taverna brings Mediterranean warmth and high-energy hospitality to the new Sydney Fish Market. Unita was engaged to deliver the 410sqm venue, supporting Brisbane- based designer Alkot Studio and Sydney-based client Efendy Group through a seamless national delivery model.
The Brief
Inspired by the tavernas of the Greek Islands, the vision was to create a vibrant Mediterranean beach club atmosphere – a place where guests could have fun, enjoy good food and listen to great music in a relaxed yet refined setting.
The name “Hamsi” references a sardine from the Black Sea region of Turkey, symbolising tradition and identity – grounding the venue’s lively aesthetic in cultural meaning and heritage.
As a national building company, Unita provided on-the-ground support in Sydney while working closely with Alkot Studio to ensure the design intent was preserved from early concept through to completion. The team managed site coordination, joinery manufacturing and construction, bridging geographic distance through consistent
communication and strong local presence.
Challenges & Solutions
Early engagement during the cost planning phase, based on preliminary floor plans and renders, revealed potential budget overruns. These were workshopped collaboratively between Unita, Alkot Studio and Efendy Group to identify alternatives that reduced costs without compromising the design vision.
Alternate procurement strategies for furniture and selected elements were explored, resolved and shipped in time for project deadlines – made possible by the project’s early planning phase.
A key construction challenge involved the formed concrete bar. Due to restricted site access and location constraints, pouring concrete onsite proved difficult. The solution was to partly fabricate the bar offsite, maintaining its intended visual impact while overcoming logistical limitations.
Design Highlight
A standout element within Hamsi Taverna is the sculptural feature bar, which anchors the venue and reinforces its Mediterranean taverna character. Crafted with a formed concrete finish, the bar introduces a tactile, architectural focal point that contrasts beautifully with the venue’s warmer materials and layered textures.
Client:
Efendy Group
Location:
Sydney Fish Market
Designer:
Alkot Studio
Project Size:
410sqm
Fitout:
Unita
