Inspired by one family’s journey from Italy to Australia, Espresso Grande imagines a landmark experience celebrating coffee, Italian heritage and Melbourne’s love of gathering over a cup.
A small three-cup percolator, carried to Australia by Rob’s father Umberto in 1956, is the starting point. Espresso Grande imagines that familiar object at extraordinary scale: a coffee-inspired destination people will want to see, visit and share.
Permanent, flexible and mobile construction options are being explored with the Industrial Design Team. Tactile Mosaics is exploring the potential for mosaic finishes. The concept imagery expresses an ambition; it is not a confirmed final design or location.
Glass mosaics, digital displays and carefully considered sponsorship and branding are possibilities within the developing concept. Hospitality and gathering remain central to the vision, with each element to be assessed for the form and location ultimately chosen.
Coffee brands, sponsors, councils, developers, potential host locations and manufacturing partners can help shape what comes next. Rob’s priority is to preserve the personal story while building something with a much wider cultural and public life.