The Shy Guy: An indulgent escape redefining nightclub design

31 Jul 2023

Located in Auckland city, The Shy Guy is a remarkable interior design project curated by Izzard Design. Envisioned by a group of renowned hospitality icons, this exclusive members only late night lounge far exceeds the conventional bar or nightclub experience.

Designed to serve as a communal living room, this hidden gem in Victoria Park Market offers a respite from the crowded late-night precincts, providing guests with a space to unwind, socialise, and network in a post-Covid world.

Kate Wotherspoon, the talented designer behind The Shy Guy, shares the inspiration behind her project: "Our goal was to create an environment where guests would feel comfortable and at ease. We wanted to break the stigma of impressively decorated interiors that often discourage touch and exploration. Instead, we aimed to design a space that could be lived in, inviting guests to relax and enjoy the various materials and textures."

Drawing inspiration from the historic brickwork of Victoria Park, the design team incorporated Venetian glass bricks to delineate different zones within the venue. These transparent bricks seamlessly carry the theme throughout the space, fostering a sense of unity. Complementing the bricks, a carefully selected palette of rich Resene paint colours, opulent marbles, chequered floor tiles, antiqued metals and bamboo silk rugs evokes an overall feeling of indulgence.

While the exterior façade of The Shy Guy remains relatively untouched, the intrigue begins once you step inside. The discrete signage and darkly tinted windows contribute to an element of surprise and discovery. Within, the venue's interior showcases plush velvet banquettes nestled within expertly crafted arched nooks, accentuated by a striking lighting installation that reflects off every painted surface of plush red, rich green and deep charcoal.

Taking inspiration from the vibrant energy of the Latin world and Colombian culture, the Izzard Design team sought to infuse The Shy Guy with a sense of fun, invitation and vivacity. Nodi Rugs Marigold and Moss carpets, carefully selected early in the project, set the tone for the space. The upholstery and bamboo silk wall panels are thoughtfully coordinated with paint colours of Resene Clover and Resene Raging Bull, while Resene Bokara Grey serves as a moody backdrop, allowing the vibrant colours and energy of the space to truly shine.

A particular highlight of The Shy Guy is its distinctive lighting system, designed to create an atmosphere that is colourful, vibrant and bold. This dynamic lighting installation allows for the different Resene colours, themes and environments to be effortlessly combined, even in spaces with minimal natural light.

The design challenge lay in striking the delicate balance between retaining the heritage of the existing building and introducing a bold, electric aesthetic. By employing rich, multi-layered materials and vibrant hues, the design successfully injected excitement into the urban area, transforming it into a vibrant and lively destination. 

Practical considerations also played a crucial role in the design process. With The Shy Guy being a nightclub, durability was paramount. Resene SpaceCote low sheen was used on the ceilings, while Resene Lustacryl was chosen for the doors, door frames, and trims. The latter proved ideal for areas that would inevitably experience wear and tear, ensuring the longevity and resilience of the nightclub's interiors.

The Shy Guy, a testament to Izzard Design's exceptional creativity and attention to detail, stands as a unique and alluring addition to Auckland's nightlife scene. As Kate Wotherspoon summarises, "We wanted to create a space where guests could experience the luxury of genuine human connection, where they could relax, socialise and revel in the joy of simply being with others. The Shy Guy embodies this vision, offering an unforgettable experience for all who enter its doors."

design Kate Wotherspoon, Izzard Design

imagesJono Parker

Expertly placed lighting helps to define each nook in this late-night lounge while bringing out the vibrant shade of the colour choices. Resene Bokara Grey was used on the trims and ceiling, while the rich red of Resene Raging Bull was used within the booths to create a lush and private feel in each space.

Lighting within each booth helps to bring out the sumptuous shade of Resene Raging Bull and invites customers in to their own private seating space. The dark shade of Resene Bokara Grey helps to define and frame each space within the nightclub.

The venue's interior showcases plush velvet banquettes nestled within expertly crafted nooks. The dark shade of Resene Bokara Grey frames this private space while skilfully placed lighting reflects from each textured surface.

Rich, serene green, Resene Clover, lines the trims and doors, complementing the plush green velvet surrounding the walls.

The arched doorway, painted in Resene Clover, leads the way to comfortable and luxurious spaces within The Shy Guy’s interior. Resene Bokara Grey lines the exposed walls next to the textured and inviting velvet and lavish carpet.

The deep charcoal shade of Resene Bokara Grey on the trims and ceiling clearly define each space, creating a cosy and cocooning effect in this late night lounge.

Published: 31 Jul 2023