FLIPSIDE

Food & Beverage outlet in Gold Coast. Planning and Approvals Documentation by Simon Dinh Architects. Completed 2025.

Visit Flipside! Now serving coffee, drinks and food.

The project transforms a previously neglected corner of Mermaid Beach into an open, welcoming community space. The existing structure is retained and exposed, softened by an abundance of planting that draws the lush garden at the rear into the interior and creates a continuous connection from the street through to the landscape beyond.

The design embraces the building’s imperfect character rather than attempting to conceal it, allowing rawness, patina and texture to become part of the experience. A street-facing coffee station brings activity and visibility to the frontage, while a full-length bar anchors the interior and connects the café to the garden beyond.

Beyond its role as a café, the space has evolved into a home for local creatives and community activity, hosting events including yoga sessions, gatherings and meet-ups.

The project was developed collaboratively with a client with a strong creative vision, working within the technical and physical constraints of an existing building. We helped translate this vision into a cohesive architectural outcome, balancing the raw character of the space with the practical requirements of its operation. We assisted with obtaining the necessary building permits, including food and liquor licenses, and plumbing approvals.

Before: