American Express Room for Thought

The American Express Room for Thought opens it doors to the public in September. After weeks of online voting, three of the best creative ideas from members of the public will soon be brought to life for each of the three categories: community, fashion and music.

Each winner was been assigned a high profile mentor, and has been working alongside them to perfect their plans. The final results will be unveiled at live events in central Sydney, all of which will receive a three-day run.

Brisbane actress Miranda Otto has guided Elle Formica in preparing to open The Little Drummer restaurant. This working kitchen will be a collaborative effort between local chefs and refugees. It will showcase cuisines under represented in the current market and will open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Kate Applegarth will be in the trusted hands of designer Peter Alexander. Together, they have sought to restyle bicycle helmets in the hope of encouraging people to cycle more. There will also be the opportunity for those attending to design their own creation.

Finally, music producer Paul Mac has led Dee Dimmick in her ambitious project, The Living Room. Unsigned acts will be given the opportunity to perform in the Room for Thought space. Guests can watch performances; participate in a series of workshops; and maybe even try out an instrument or two themselves. And the performances can also be viewed via webcast from other living rooms across the world.

The Little Drummer 14–16 Sept, 7am–9pm; Fashionable Bicycle Helmets 21–23 Sept, 7am–9pm; The Living Room 28–30 Sept, 12 noon–10pm