Città Commercial: Project feature of Gather Eatery

After more than two decades of bringing Aucklanders vibrant, fresh food, the team behind Ripe Deli is at it again. This time, they’ve introduced a dine-in eatery to a light-filled space at Smales Farm. The vision? Gather Eatery leans into the joy of dining in—slowing down to connect with others and savouring great food and drink.

The interior is the vision of Jonathan Goss (of Ellegard-Goss Studio) and Ripe’s creative director, Amy Melchior. We spoke to Jonathan to learn more about the project.

Can you tell us about the building itself—its history, character, unique features?

The building was conceived as a natural extension of the vibrant Goodside Precinct at Smales Farm, purpose-built to embody the vision of the Ripe team. Its striking glasshouse form is anchored by recycled French brick and expansive glazing, framed in a distinctive scoria red to create a bold yet welcoming presence.

Flooded with natural light, the interior feels open, uplifting, and connected to its surroundings. Extending from the structure, a timber arbour defines the all-weather outdoor dining area, offering shelter, texture, and a sense of continuity between indoors and out. The result is a venue that feels both dramatic and inviting—a true gathering place at the heart of the precinct.

What was the design brief for the project?

The brief was to create a warm, welcoming space that feels like a second home—where family, friends, and community naturally gather around exceptional food and drink in a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. Gather Eatery is envisioned as a community hub: a place for connection, conversation, and lingering, where memories are made and relationships strengthened.

The culinary approach is simple yet refined: great food, coffee, and wine, served with genuine hospitality. The space should feel beautiful, relaxed, and reliable—offering consistently excellent service and cuisine, supported by warm, kind staff. A trusted venue for everyday dining, private functions, and long-table gatherings, Gather is a place people return to because it feels like home.

What materials, textures, or design references shaped your approach?

The interior takes its cue from a modern Scandi barn aesthetic, softened with warmth and texture, and balanced by an edge of industrial character. Core materials—blued steel plate, antique oak floorboards, and natural timber—establish a grounded, timeless foundation. French-washed walls add depth and tactility, while jewel-like mānuka-glazed tiles draw customers to the heart of the restaurant.

Earthy terracotta tones are paired with vintage green velvet banquette seating, creating a rich, welcoming contrast. Crisp, contemporary furniture completes the palette, striking a balance between rustic familiarity and modern refinement. The result is a space that feels both honest and elevated—crafted to be as comfortable and enduring as it is beautiful.

How did Città’s furniture support or enhance your vision for the space?

The Radial range brings a quiet elegance to the space, its clean lines and timeless form offering modern refinement against the warmth of rustic materials. More than furniture, it provides a design language—one that is cohesive yet flexible, with chairs, tall stools, and low stools available in both upholstered and unupholstered finishes. This versatility allows the pieces to adapt effortlessly, creating a sense of continuity throughout.

Gather Eatery is an exciting new venture from the team behind Auckland’s iconic Ripe Deli. How does Gather differ from Ripe?

Gemma Heffernan of Gather Eatery: After 24 years of bringing vibrant, fresh food to Aucklanders, the team behind Ripe Deli is excited to be doing something a little different. Gather marks a new chapter—a sit-down eatery that leans into slower moments. We’re proud to be launching this new concept as part of the Ripe group, adding to our family of four delis and stepping into a new style of dining.

Our goal is to create a beautiful, welcoming space where everyone feels catered for and where both the food and atmosphere reflect the very best of what we love about this industry. Gather is really about taking a moment from your day and giving yourself time to enjoy the simple pleasures. And yes, dogs are welcome, too.

Featured products: Radial Stool Low w/ Leather Seat, Radial Stool w/ Leather Seat, Radial Dining Chair w/ Leather Seat, Holi Stool High

Photographer: Jono Parker

Location: Gather Eatery Smales Farm, 78-94 Taharoto Road, Takapuna, Auckland

Open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch, Gather is also fully licensed and available for private bookings and events. Visit their website to learn more.