The Bentley Restaurant Group continues to redefine modern hospitality with an unmistakable focus on energy, detail, and design. At Eleven Barrack, contemporary flair comes to life in a heritage setting — a space where history meets modernity and lighting plays a key role in setting the tone.
For Group Operations Manager Ben Brown, creating atmosphere is as important as the menu. “We want people to feel looked after, but also a bit transported — like they’re somewhere special,” he says. That philosophy extends into every element of the space, including the striking custom Cooee red lamps designed in collaboration with NEOZ.
A Story of Adaptation and Sustainability
The lamps at Eleven Barrack have a deeper story. Originally part of Cirrus, one of Bentley Group’s flagship venues, these Cooee 2c lamps had seen eight years of daily use. Instead of discarding them, the team worked with NEOZ to upcycle the lamps—replacing the diffuser component, retaining the original light engine, and continuing to use the same charging system.
This shows the real-world benefits of NEOZ’s modular, sustainable design philosophy — products built to last, supported well beyond the warranty period, and adaptable to new styles and spaces. And it is a prime example of how modular cordless lighting can save NEOZ's client significant costs while aligning with sustainable practices.
You can read more about NEOZ’s approach to Modular Lighting as a Sustainability Solution here.
The original Cooee 2c silver illuminating Cirrus Dining in Barangaroo
Lighting That Speaks Softly, But is Felt Boldly
Lighting sets the mood, simple as that,” says Brown. For Eleven Barrack, the team sought a lighting scheme that would evoke intimacy without overwhelming the space. “We’re always thinking about how the light hits a table, how it makes the food look, and how it changes throughout a service.”
The Cooee red lamps were selected as much for their performance as for their striking form and colour. Cordless and dimmable, they bring flexibility and control to a room where ambience evolves from afternoon to evening. “It’s got to look good, but it also has to work for the room and the team.”
The space itself — a heritage building with architectural character — demanded a thoughtful design response. “We wanted something that would stand out but still feel like it belongs,” Brown says. “The Cooee red lamps gave us that — they’re bold without being flashy. The red is rich and warm, and once they’re lit, they add this beautiful glow to the tables.”
Refined over several iterations, the final colour and finish reflect the palette of the room while adding a vivid accent that anchors each dining setting.
The original silver lamps were refitted with the stunning red diffuser for Eleven Barrack
Designed in Collaboration, Experienced by Guests
Working with NEOZ meant refining not just the look, but the technical function. “We needed something cordless and dimmable, so it gave us flexibility in the room without relying on fixed lighting,” says Brown. “The red took a few goes to get right, but it was worth it.”
Because of the modularity of NEOZ products, even a change of venue, style, or design concept required only a simple adaptation. This flexibility allowed Bentley to preserve their investment while maintaining high design standards.
The result is a lighting solution that balances beauty, durability, and usability — designed to last, and to light the space with purpose.
Guests notice the difference. “People comment on the lamps all the time — the colour, the shape, the way they light up the table,” says Brown. “It’s one of those details that makes a big impact without being over the top.” For a venue where every element is carefully considered, those quiet compliments are the ultimate sign that the design is working.
Brown’s advice for others considering custom lighting? “Don’t overthink it, but do take it seriously. Lighting’s one of those things people don’t always notice when it’s done well — but they do notice when it’s off.”
