Wara Thai

Total Fitouts Wide Bay was tasked with transforming the old, dilapidated structure into a modern, functional, and compliant restaurant, Wara Thai. The owners of the beloved yet compact Em Thai Restaurant in Maryborough faced a significant challenge: they wanted to expand their thriving business into a larger space located in a historic building dating back to 1865, which had been neglected for many years. Their initial attempts to renovate with the help of a plumber led them astray, as the project’s complexity surpassed his expertise. Fortunately, Total Fitouts Wide Bay came highly recommended by another satisfied client, French Hot Bread, and stepped in to bring the vision of the commercial hospitality fit out to life. After being rebranded from Em Thai at the same time as the fit out, Wara Thai brought a modern, fresh feel to their new branding.

The original design brief called for a “warm, natural, cozy, clean/light” ambience. Misa Yuzuriha, Total Fitouts Wide Bay’s in-house commercial designer, translated this vision into a stunning interior. Warm colours were introduced through Charisma Sage vinyl on the built-in bench seats and Bayleaf Laminex. Natural materials such as rattan pendants, wooden table tops, and wooden paneling on the front of the bar enhanced the inviting atmosphere. The VJ paneling behind the bench seats was painted grey, complementing the marble-look vinyl floor tiles, tying the interior design together seamlessly.

The minimalist exterior commercial design aimed to blend the signage and exterior colours harmoniously, resulting in an eye-catching transformation from the previously bright orange facade.

The two separate kitchen spaces of the commercial hospitality fitout were meticulously designed to comply with health standards. Key features included appropriately sized hoods for the equipment below, strategically placed hand basins, and walls panelled with stainless steel and ACM for easy cleaning. This ensured that Wara Thai’s kitchen could operate efficiently while maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety.

The commercial interior fitout saw collaboration with several skilled local tradespeople and businesses, each contributing to the successful transformation of Wara Thai: GS Engineering, CT Plumbing, Rook Upholstery, Fraser Coast Joinery, MaxAir Electrical, LT Walls & Ceilings, Bin King Skip Hire, 1300 Prep It, Rob Nissen Flooring, Xtra Commercial Kitchen Equipment, Scott Sparks Painting, Peter O’Brien Consulting, Samios Plumbing, Dead On Signage, Handy Hire and LKH Concreting.

Total Fitouts Wide Bay shopfit experts successfully revitalised the historic building, transforming it into a functional, beautiful commercial restaurant fitout that meets modern standards while celebrating Maryborough’s heritage. The project not only provided a new home for Wara Thai but also contributed to the preservation and appreciation of the town’s historic architecture. The joy of bringing such a space back to life was shared by the owners, the team, and the community, marking a new chapter for both the restaurant and the building.

Looking for a commercial hospitality fitout? Inquire with us today.