Byron Bay’s beloved Light Years Asian Diner has received an update by the boutique local practice Studio Plenty. The design scheme explores tonality and texture to capture the playful personality of the hospitality hotspot and to refine and level up the brand. Undertones of sensibility are threaded through an overtly playful series of dining spaces. Although the interior feels harmonised, each zone is given its own gradient and materiality to create distinct spatial identities. 

This is the first solo project for architect Will Rathgeber, founder of Studio Plenty, who has worked for Jackson Clements Burrows Architects and Woods Bagot in Melbourne, currently working part-time at Harley Graham Architects.Where this project shows its vigour is in its determination to remain locally grounded. During the design process, Will engaged local talent in an effort to help the design be positively influenced by threads of local culture and context—which, in turn, forms part of the fabric experienced by patrons. 

Alongside Sarah Ellison’s furniture concept, Will worked with local artist Heath Wae on two distinct murals that work to break up the wash of tonal terracotta. Studio Plenty implemented commonplace sustainable practices such as hard-wearing materials and finishes to ensure an enduring fit-out. High ceilings are maintained to maximise natural light and ensure natural ventilation for patron comfort and air quality.