Olivette is a subterranean waterhole that celebrates the prosperity, self-proclaimed freedom and basement debauchery of the roaring twenties. A place where revellers can whet their whistle on the highest quality prohibition-style concoctions and an expansive whiskey and spirits list, which features rare blends and exquisite bottles sourced from around the world. And with a selection of fine bar foods to boot, of course.

The Brief

Nick and Anna came to us with a vision to create a whisky bar and speakeasy in Wagga Wagga, inspired by the glamour and intrigue of the 1920s prohibition era. While the nostalgic spirit of the Roaring Twenties had immediate appeal, we collectively agreed that the typical “prohibition” aesthetic felt tired, overly themey, and prone to aging fast.

The Concept: The Underground Golden Age

Originally titled Amendment XXI—a direct reference to the constitutional amendment that repealed prohibition—the concept leaned heavily on American historical references. Our strategic process steered the brand toward a more timeless and transportive idea: The Underground Golden Age. A new kind of golden era—seductive, immersive, and anti-establishment—unfolding not in plain sight, but hidden beneath it.

Our challenge was to create a brand identity that honoured the sophistication and drama of the era, while avoiding the cliches. The concept needed to feel understated but rich, mysterious yet memorable, with the kind of visual and verbal language that would evolve gracefully over time. The name, design, and tone had to work in tandem with the venue’s immersive interiors by Caswell Group.

We brought together two worlds: the basement speakeasy—hidden, seductive, anti-establishment—and the golden age of hospitality—luxe, layered, transportive. Ideas of behind the curtain, sultriness and secrets guided the tone, while the palette and materials drew inspiration from the richness of Art Deco and the romance of European lounges. The result was a concept that felt both otherworldly and modern.

Naming: Olivette

The name Olivette references a ship captained by prohibition-era bootlegger William McCoy early in his life—planting a seed for what would later become a notorious career. More than a historical nod, Olivette felt feminine, mysterious, elegant, and unique. It aligned beautifully with the interior palette, conjured imagery of a classic drink, and offered a narrative springboard full of intrigue.

Visual Identity

The logo is a refined modern serif—elevated, glamorous, and full of personality. Custom details like the angled ‘O’ and double ‘T’ ligature give it a signature look, equal parts restrained and charismatic.

The brandmark extends from this DNA—a circular ‘O’ as a portal, veiled with fine vertical lines that suggest curtains, secrecy, and descent. It nods to the underground, the unspoken, the forbidden. It functions as a bold reinforcement to the logo, or a mysterious icon on its own, and is the only brand element appearing on the discreet streetfront.

A rich olive green anchors the colour palette, tied to both the name and interior tones. It’s supported by muted brass and tonal neutrals that feel soft, tactile, and timeless—perfectly aligned with the finishes and textures within the venue developed by Caswell Group.

Every element—from menus to matchbooks—was designed to feel stealable, collectable, and part of an immersive universe where time is forgotten.

Credits

Interior Design: Caswell Group
Website Development: Andrew Cunneen