Ultimo’s Diner 2025: The 1950’s Christmas Party Perth Would Not Stop Talking About
There is something timeless about a well executed theme. When it is done right, it does more than dress a room. It shifts the mood, sets the pace and gives people permission to step out of their everyday and into something memorable. Ultimo’s Diner was designed with exactly that in mind. A bold nod to the optimism and colour of the 1950s, delivered through a refined, modern lens and built to host end of year celebrations that felt effortless, immersive and undeniably fun.
For three weeks, The Kingsman became home to this retro inspired world. From the moment guests arrived, every detail worked together to create a sense of excitement and ease. It was polished without feeling precious, playful without losing its sense of sophistication and designed to feel as good as it looked.
Concept
Ultimo’s Diner was developed as a high impact end of year experience that balanced nostalgia with contemporary execution. The concept drew inspiration from classic American diners of the 1950s, reimagined for a modern corporate audience that values atmosphere, quality and seamless delivery.
The intention was to create a celebration that felt instantly familiar yet refreshingly unexpected. One that invited guests to relax, connect and enjoy the moment, without the formality that can sometimes come with large scale corporate events. The Diner offered a complete experience where every element had a purpose and contributed to the overall energy of the night.
The cocktail wall featuring three gold bells became the perfect introduction. Guests were invited to engage straight away, ringing a bell to receive a perfectly presented cocktail. This simple but playful moment broke the ice, encouraged interaction and set the tone before guests even stepped inside.
Throughout the season, the concept proved its strength night after night. Guests arrived curious and left fully immersed, a clear reflection of a theme built not only on creativity but on thoughtful execution and flow.
Styling
Styling was a defining element of the Diner experience and played a key role in establishing its identity. The visual direction was bold and confident, carefully layered to feel cohesive, elevated and unmistakably 1950s without leaning into novelty.
Red diner booths acted as strong anchor points throughout the space, encouraging guests to gather and settle in. The black and white checkered floor grounded the design, creating contrast and rhythm while supporting movement across the venue. Bubblegum pink and soft blue accents were woven throughout the space, adding warmth and nostalgia in a refined and controlled way.
Two custom designed entry arches, created by our in house graphic designer, framed the arrival experience and delivered immediate impact. These arches marked the transition into the Diner world and reinforced the sense of stepping into a fully curated environment. They also became a favourite visual moment for guests as they arrived.
The vintage arcade room added a playful layer to the overall experience. Designed as a breakout space, it invited guests to explore, interact and enjoy a moment of light hearted competition. This additional environment gave the event depth and encouraged guests to move through the venue rather than remaining in one place.
Food
The food offering was designed to feel generous, familiar and indulgent, while maintaining Ultimo’s commitment to quality and presentation. The menu celebrated classic diner flavours elevated through thoughtful execution and premium ingredients.
Hot honey chicken, cheesesteaks and loaded fries quickly became signature favourites, delivering bold flavour and immediate appeal. These dishes anchored the experience in comfort and familiarity. The parmesan wheel pasta added a strong sense of theatre, with live preparation creating movement and drawing attention throughout the night.
Roaming canapés ensured guests were continually engaged and catered for as they moved through the space. Buffalo chicken lollipops, cheeseburger spring rolls and charcoal goat cheese cones added variety and visual interest, complementing the main food stalls and supporting a relaxed dining style.
The overall food experience encouraged sharing, conversation and movement. It was designed to feel abundant without being overwhelming, allowing guests to enjoy the offering at their own pace while staying connected to the energy of the event.
Entertainment
Entertainment was woven seamlessly into the Diner experience, adding energy and personality without overpowering the atmosphere. Each element was selected to complement the theme while appealing to a contemporary corporate audience.
Roving performers moved through the venue creating moments of connection and engagement. Their presence added warmth and spontaneity, helping the space feel lively and welcoming throughout the night.
Lindy Hop dancers brought rhythm and movement to the room, introducing moments of visual impact that lifted the energy and paid direct homage to the era. Their performances were carefully timed to enhance the flow of the evening and maintain momentum.
The DJ performed from inside a custom built vintage car shell, becoming a standout visual feature as well as the musical heartbeat of the event. This installation successfully bridged retro styling with modern sound, reinforcing the overall concept while keeping the atmosphere current and engaging.
Gratitude
Events of this scale are never the result of a single team or moment. Ultimo’s Diner was brought to life by a network of passionate people across event management, operations, kitchen, service, styling, logistics and marketing. Every detail was shaped by individuals who care deeply about the experience we deliver and the standard we set.
We are equally grateful to our trusted suppliers and partners, whose collaboration and commitment play an essential role in the success of every season. Their support allows us to deliver complex concepts with confidence and consistency.
To our clients, thank you for trusting Ultimo with your corporate end of year celebrations. Your confidence in our team allows us to push creative boundaries and continue delivering experiences that feel memorable, effortless and considered. We look forward to welcoming you back next season.

Event Partners & Suppliers
Event Concept, Styling, Management & Catering: Ultimo @ultimo_catering
Media: RIFT @riftphoto
Venue: The Kingsman @thekingsmanau
Production & AV: One20 Productions @one20productions
Hire & Lighting: Event Mill @theeventmill Event Republic @eventrepublicau Festoon @festoon_lighting
Printing: Centre Graphics @centregraphics
Custom Builds: Leighton Builds @leighton_builds
DJ: Streamline Entertainment @streamlineperth
Entertainment: BBC Entertainment (Miss Lady Lace @missladylace, Gone Rockin’ Dancers @gonerockin)
Beverages: Gage Roads Brew Co @gageroadsbrewco, Idle Hands Drinks Co @idlehandsdrinksco































































