Machine Hall is quickly gaining a reputation as Sydney’s coolest new cultural precinct, a credit in large part due to its cutting-edge design.

Once an operational substation, Machine Hall was regenerated by Built and YSG into a vibrant venue that honours its industrial past while embracing contemporary innovation. 

Key to this transformation is Axolotl, whose artisanal finishes bring character and sophistication to two of the space’s standout features: the grand front door and the mezzanine bar.

A grand entrance with blackened steel

Axolotl’s contribution begins at the threshold, where the front door leaves a lasting impression. 

The entrance has been treated in Axolotl’s iconic Carved Lunar design and a weathered Blackened Steel metal finish. This technique involves blasting specific areas of the door’s surface to create a textured, three-dimensional effect, then coating it in Blackened Steel. 

This weathered patina finish nods to the building’s history while adding a modern twist. The result? A finish that feels both industrial and refined.

These aren’t just any doors – they’re durable security steel doors with a world-leading acoustic soundproofing system. Crafted entirely in Sydney, the robust fabrication not only complements the industrial aesthetic but also ensures the space within remains insulated from the city’s bustling sounds.

The process doesn’t stop at aesthetics. Each door panel is meticulously hand-polished and aged to achieve a unique, artisanal character. Finally, the finish is sealed with a clear topcoat, ensuring its durability and protecting it from further oxidation. 

This careful balance of artistry and technical precision makes the door a true showpiece, setting the tone for the experience within.

An endlessly evolving bar counter 

Moving inside, the bar counter takes centre stage with a design that is as dynamic as the space itself. YSG specified the same Carved Lunar texture, but coated in a new metal colour of Champagne Bronze for the metal finish. This warm, neutral hue was polished to a bright brilliance, creating a striking contrast to the industrial aesthetic of the surroundings.

The craftsmanship goes beyond the finish. The metal seamlessly wraps over the counter’s intricate curves and rippled detailing at the front, creating a fluid, sculptural effect. This level of precision raises the counter to its rightful place as a true showstopper – a piece that draws in the eye and invites closer appreciation.

Unlike the front door, the bar counter’s finish was intentionally left unsealed. As a living finish, it reacts to its environment, oxidising with exposure to touch, water and air. 

Over time, the counter will develop a unique patina, each layer a reflection of the life and stories shared around it. This design approach ensures the bar remains a living, breathing part of the venue – a monument to the community it serves.

Bespoke craftsmanship for unforgettable spaces

Axolotl’s involvement in Machine Hall underscores its reputation as a pioneer of bespoke surface design. The Sydney-based business’ ability to collaborate with architects and designers, translating visions into tangible finishes, is what sets it apart. 

Whether it’s creating the industrial charm of Blackened Steel or the glowing sophistication of Champagne Bronze, Axolotl’s finishes are as much about storytelling as they are about aesthetics.

Design that leaves a legacy

Machine Hall’s transformation is more than a renovation – it’s a narrative brought to life through considered design. Axolotl’s finishes don’t adorn the space; they define it, enhancing how people interact with and remember it. Visitors can feel that it’s a special space where past and present converge, inviting them to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Find out more about Axolotl’s range of authentic metal, concrete, terrazzo and terracotta surfaces on its website.

Photography supplied by Axolotl.