The Fiddler

A historic landmark in Sydney, The (Mean) Fiddler has been an iconic pub in Sydney for generations, mainly for holding a reputation as one of the most violent places to get a drink in NSW. In 2014 the owners decided to give it a multimillion-dollar redesign to create a community-based social hub that would service the area and the growing number of families that were inhabiting the area. There was an opportunity to create an elegant venue with multiple spaces offering quality casual dining.

The Fiddler offers a series of spaces all offering a unique experience for diners. The Veranda, Courtyard, Irish Bar, The Lounge, The Beer Garden and the Pizzeria offer visitors a place to gather, drink and dine no matter the occasion.

LPA’s design challenge was to reinforce a cultural change for this venue in the lighting design, encouraging a safe family atmosphere whilst meeting the individual requirements of the different zones. The Lounge required stylish and comfortable illumination levels from modern fittings, the Beer Garden needed to reflect a Sunday feel 7 days a week, and the traditional Irish bar needed low illumination levels, all zones had to project a feeling of safety and security. From IP65 landscaping lights for the Beer Garden to Festoon Lights in the Bistro, LPA met the brief for this redevelopment with standard and custom fittings. The Fiddler remains an iconic pub in Sydney; however, it is now known for its high standard of food offerings for casual dining, great atmosphere and gorgeous fit-out.