A new self-serve mini mart and vending machine called Paramart has opened inside the Paramount House Hotel lobby in Surry Hills, offering round-the-clock access to locally sourced food, drinks and in-stay items.
Background on the Surry Hills Project
Paramart launched on 14 November 2025 inside the lobby of the Paramount House Hotel in Surry Hills. The space was created as an all-hours mini mart and vending point for hotel guests and for anyone passing through the area.
The nook was designed by Awa Studio, the practice led by Anna Wu, with visual direction shaped by artist Sonny Day. Domus Vim supplied the illuminated signage, while the styling drew from both retro Australian milk bars and Japanese vending culture.
How the Paramart System Works
Paramart operates 24 hours a day and combines a snack fridge, wine fridge and a customised vending machine. Guests can access food, drinks and in-room additions without needing hotel staff.
The selection includes onigiri and mochi from Parami, chocolate chip cookies and bread from AP Bread, taramasalata and chocolate yoghurt pots from Baba’s Place, tiramisu from Cicerone, and preserved items such as pâté, sardines, caviar and pickles. Single-serve bottled cocktails were developed with Bar Planet, alongside a stocked fridge of wine and liquor options.
Borrowable Items for Hotel Guests
Beyond food and beverages, Paramart also provides items for guests to borrow through a custom locker system. The options include vintage Nintendo Game Boys, cassette players, tarot cards, chess sets, a pocket-sized drum machine, a curated reading library by Btwnlns and stretch kits by The Calmm.
Design and Presentation in Surry Hills
The vending machine sits in a bright corner of the lobby, built with bold colours, mixed textures, mirrors and light features. A glowing sign marks the entrance beside the hotel lift, signalling the location for visitors and guests moving through the reception area.
Community and Visitor Use
Paramart offers a convenient option for hotel guests and locals in Surry Hills who want access to food and items outside standard trading hours. The model functions as both a contemporary amenity for visitors and a curated showcase of Sydney makers.
What Comes Next
Paramart operates continuously at 80 Commonwealth Street in Surry Hills, with the hotel indicating it will remain a permanent amenity for guests and a public point of access for nearby visitors.
Published 21-Nov-2025
