Virginia Hellier Consulting

Virginia Hellier Consulting

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Mirka at Tolarno
St Kilda Gets a Grossi Touch - Mirka At Tolarno Hotel

In a culture where the old is constantly superseded by new models and styles, Guy Grossi shows that some things really are worth retaining and in fact increase in their worth. He believes that their value is in the wealth of cultural history and education provided so far, and in the possibility of continuing harvests into the future.

When Guy finally took on the lease at Tolarno Hotel in Fitzroy Street, he was thrilled that so many like minded friends were also drawn by its magnetism, and the allure of what he describes as a "magical space", most wanting to lend a hand or be involved in some way in the restoration of this grand old dame of Melbourne society and culture. Peter Elliott, well known for his architectural forms and as curator of some of the city's most noteworthy public spaces was the first to jump aboard - Guy choose Peter because of his long standing in Melbourne's cultural circles - Peter's devotion to the site is apparent in this space, where a 'truthful' eatery with a Continental atmosphere has been returned to the people of Melbourne. Guy describes it as a warm, comfortable and welcoming home where the pots are always full!

This amazing piece of Melbourne has finally come full circle in so many ways, with Guy commissioning Mirka Mora to the restoration of her original 1960's murals and the creation of some new pieces. 'The Gallery' walls have been revealed, in a space that will effectively run as a gallery and restaurant; providing the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art with a new site, for a seasonally changing exhibition by local emerging artists. With it's centrepiece, a stunning wisteria inspired light created by Geoffrey Mance complementing the original stained glass windows, this will be a dining area of choice that can alternatively be used for private dinners. Artist Mirka Mora

'The Dining Room' with it's fifty or so seats, timber tables and surrounding Mirka art overflowing with life and colour, epitomizes the Melbourne/ St Kilda style, a style inspired by all things Continental for many generations. 'The Bar' a place to go to revive the body and restore the senses is open all day and into the evening - the smell of coffee and the clatter of wine glasses are the comforting and welcoming chimes of bar life, where everyone enjoys a sense of belonging.

The Bar - The Gallery - The Dining Room
Mirka at Tolarno Hotel
42 Fitzroy Street St Kilda
Phone 95253088
Carlos Grossi Mirka at Tolarno bar Visit the Mirka at Tolarno website here

Please contact us for photos & interviews here
or at the Melbourne office
Hellier Consulting
PO Box 259
Toorak 3142
Melbourne Victoria
Tel 03) 9500 2392   Fax 03) 9500 2671