A neighbourhood classic in Auckland’s Herne Bay is brought back to life
Late last year, Auckland’s Nourish Group reopened Andiamo, which had closed on the same site several years before. “Andiamo had been an instiution in our community for years,” says Nourish’s Paula Sigley, “and we wanted to re-create a warm and inviting local.”
Any reservations bringing back such a beloved institution?
Initially, it felt like a brave decision, but as the build progressed locals would pop in to see the next move. Eventually, we gave up covering the windows to hide the build progress, as most of the community had popped in for a tour. The decision went from feeling like a brave one to feeling like the right one.
How did you reference the original?
I tried to re-create a sense of the inviting atmosphere through the warmth of the interior colours and by reintroducing the dado effect on the walls. The large communal dining table positioned in the bar window was a sought-after spot, so we reinstated low, casual dining in this area.
Tell us about those beautiful light shades.
The canopy of lights was essential to compress the high stud for a more intimate feel. The lights are based on a vintage terracotta pot – I approached [lighting designer] James Russ to ask if he could reproduce it on a larger scale as a light shade. He loved the idea, and after the initial shock of learning I needed 47 of them in a very short lead time, set about creating a terracotta shade, light enough to suspend en masse from a ceiling.
There’s also some lovely bespoke metal work by Powersurge.
We wanted antiqued brass for its timeless feel.
What’s on the menu?
Our executive chef Gareth Stewart has eagerly been awaiting a restaurant in which he could cook his collection of Italian family recipes.
Andiamo
194 Jervois Rd, Herne Bay, Auckland
andiamoeatery.co.nz
Photography by: David Straight
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