Light Years Asian Diner receives coastal modernism makeover

Byron Bay’s beloved Light Years Asian Diner has undergone an exciting transformation, courtesy of local design firm Studio Plenty.

Led by founder Will Rathgeber, the team infused the space with a fresh concept that embraces warm textures and earthy tones, bringing a new level of sophistication to the dining experience.

GALLERY  

The revamped interiors celebrate the restaurant’s signature coastal modernism, using a blend of natural materials and contemporary design elements.

Studio Plenty worked with the building’s unique L-shaped layout, dividing the space into a dining area and bar. The terrazzo bar top serves as a central feature, displaying a palette of peach, earth-toned reds, and clay-coloured hues. This earthy foundation extends throughout the restaurant, creating a sense of flow and connection.

The update also includes a custom-designed furniture collection by renowned Australian designer Sarah Ellison, which draws inspiration from Moroccan architecture. Her pieces, featuring softly curving forms and arching profiles, imbue the space with a sense of movement and fluidity. Terracotta shades dominate, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere, while awning-striped fabrics add texture and depth to the setting. Ellison’s designs echo the aesthetic of the Yves Saint Laurent Museum in Marrakech, channelling the same clay tones and tactile surfaces.

Adding to the visual appeal of the new design, Melbourne-based artist Heath Wae has created two original murals. His bold, colourful works stand out against the earthy backdrop, injecting vibrancy into the space without detracting from the overall ambiance. These murals complement the natural palette and bring an artistic flair to the revamped Light Years Asian Diner.

This latest renovation not only enhances the restaurant’s aesthetic appeal but also reflects the laid-back sophistication of Byron Bay. With its harmonious blend of modern design and earthy textures, Light Years Asian Diner continues to offer a unique dining experience that celebrates both its coastal roots and its contemporary edge.

Images by Jessie Prince via Designboom

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