Dymocks

Total Fitouts Adelaide Central, led by Brett Kelly and his team, successfully completed a commercial retail fitout for Dymocks, a grand bookstore located in the Adelaide CBD. The project involved transforming the Regent Theatre, once known as ‘Australia’s most luxurious theatre’ since its opening in 1928, into a flagship Dymocks store that pays homage to its heritage. The retail fitout aimed to preserve the original features of the building, including the striking facade, ornate plaster, and render detailing on ceiling roses, friezes, and arches.

The scope of work included various elements such as a gorgeous heritage-themed entry, large custom book shelving, amenities, and comfortable reading spaces. The fitout for the commercial retail space was meticulously executed by Total Fitouts Adelaide Central in collaboration with Grieve Gillett Architects and external designers, ensuring a seamless integration of the design & building elements.

Dymocks has garnered significant recognition for its exceptional design and preservation of heritage elements. The project has been honoured by being selected as a finalist in multiple prestigious categories of the 2023 SA Chapter Architecture Awards. Dymocks, fitout by Total Fitouts Adelaide Central, has achieved recognition in the City of Adelaide Prize (SA) category, which celebrates projects that contribute significantly to the urban fabric and enhance the city’s overall quality. The transformation of the former Regent Theatre into a flagship Dymocks store showcases the thoughtful integration of architectural design with the existing heritage of the building, breathing new life into a historic landmark. The City of Adelaide Prize nomination highlights Dymocks’ positive impact on the city’s architectural landscape and its contribution to the vibrant cultural fabric of Adelaide.

Furthermore, Dymocks has been recognised in the Heritage category of the SA Chapter Architecture Awards. The project’s commitment to preserving and restoring original features, such as the striking facade, ornate plasterwork, and render detailing on ceiling roses, friezes, and arches, has garnered acclaim. The Heritage category nomination acknowledges the successful integration of modern functionality with the preservation of historical elements, creating a harmonious and captivating environment. 

Ella Horne, in-house designer for Total Fitouts Adelaide Central says, “The front section of the retail fitout showcases a stunning facade with large rounded windows, allowing glimpses of the heritage features within the multi-story building. Above the doorway, a prominent custom LED signage proudly displays the Dymocks brand, accompanied by Dymocks flags and restored balconies below the windows. To access the store’s level, escalators are installed at the street entrance, maintaining the grandeur of the restored building.”

Brett and his skilled carpenters delivered a high-quality retail fitout that beautifully blends heritage elements with modern design. The space features gorgeous high ceilings adorned with heritage panelling and ceiling roses. White-painted walls with ornate plastering, friezes, and arches add a touch of elegance and charm. Large modernised custom wooden arch book displays, illuminated by carefully placed lighting, maximise the use of the expansive high ceilings. The flooring maintains a consistent wood colour theme, complemented by grey and wine-red carpeting that ties into the ambience of other heritage city flagship stores. 

Comfortable seating areas throughout the retail space feature unique heritage-style wine-red furniture, creating cozy nooks for visitors to indulge in their reading pursuits. The main counter boasts a textured marble design in muted earthy colours, accentuated by LED lights along the underside of the black benchtop. To complete the space, an array of merchandise and carefully curated smaller bookcase displays are strategically placed, inviting customers to explore.

Total Fitouts Adelaide Central’s commercial retail fitout for Dymocks showcases their expertise in transforming historic spaces into functional and aesthetically pleasing environments. The attention to detail, seamless integration of heritage elements, and collaboration with Grieve Gillett Architects and external designers result in a bookstore that not only preserves the building’s history but also provides a captivating experience for book lovers and visitors. The project was completed successfully, reflecting Total Fitouts Adelaide Central’s commitment to delivering high-quality fitouts that meet client expectations and capture the essence of the space’s heritage. Looking for a fitout? Contact us today.

Credit for Photography: Anthony Basheer