For the “The Race That Stops The Nation,” we designed and delivered a three-level brand experience for Kirin Ichiban at Flemington’s Birdcage. The concept pairs the conviviality of a Japanese Izakaya with the calm focus of a Japanese Listening Lounge, layered with subtle storytelling from the Kirin mythical creature.

Two complementary environments create pace and contrast across Levels, moving guests from food-led connection to music-led immersion while maintaining a coherent material palette and clear service flow.

The Izakaya — Level Two
Inspired by Japan’s after-work pubs, Level Two is light and social, Japanese timber paneling, refined wood detailing and bamboo greenery set an easy rhythm for conversation. A feature sushi bar anchors the room, where a skilled itamae prepares a whole 50kg tuna into sashimi and nigiri in full view. At its heart, a 6-metre Cloud Bar keeps service effortless, pouring a selection of Lion beers and, of course, the number one Kirin Ichiban.

The Japanese Listening Lounge — Level Three
Rooted in the jazz kissa tradition, the Listening Lounge is music-led. The room is tuned for sound and mood with warm timbers, vinyl on rotation, First Press artwork, planted greenery and warm, soft lighting. It’s where the day gathers momentum and where guests linger to “kick on” with a cold Kirin Ichiban.

Brand Storytelling — The Kirin
The Kirin, a symbol of good fortune and prosperity in Japanese folklore, is said to never touch the ground, moving over clouds or water to avoid harming even a blade of grass. We translated this into floating motifs, elevated details and subtle gold accents, quiet cues that reward a closer look.