Inspired by the changing nature of light, Nour is a fresh, relaxed and contemporary restaurant in Sydney’s Surry Hills, offering a mix of Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine with an aesthetic to match. Natural light fills the space during the day through large arched windows that at night help the space transition seamlessly to an intimate, clean space.

“Flooded with natural light from both the street front and the terrace – Nour, meaning light, became the name, and the overarching principle of the concept,” says designer Paul Papadopoulos of DS17, “It was such a unique character of the space that we really wanted to make the most of it. From there our way of thinking was to achieve the correct layout for both the operation and the experience of the diner, and merging that with inspiration from Middle Eastern landscapes and architecture for a fresh, contemporary and new brand and interior.”

The result for Nour is a harmonious blend of rich and muted hues, recalling Middle-Eastern landscapes and a combination of dusty pink tones – bringing a relaxed and contemporary sense of balance. Subtle pink hues and a mix of earthy and airy shades challenge traditional interior perceptions of colour and serve as a visually arresting, yet never distracting aesthetic.

“The rich and muted hues inspired by Middle-Eastern landscapes, which are used throughout the space in feature wall finishes furniture, furnishings and tableware, add depth and warmth to a very fresh and clean base palette of grey and white concretes, white tiles and light timbers” says Paul.

Natural Oak, marble, copper detailing, and woollen fabrics play off one another to build to a fresh and sophisticated result. The furniture throughout Nour carries and sense of lightness and ease, mirroring the literal light that fills the space throughout the day, adding to patrons feelings of relaxation in the space. The variety of seating arrangements too, from the bar to the open dining areas and the private dining room, have been considered to create a sense of welcoming calm.

An refreshing antidote to an overly bustling and tired Crown Street, Nour uses cool and soothing Middle-Eastern styling to create a feeling of wellness to match its cuisine.