New York, NY
The design of Bad Hombre draws inspiration from the warm ambiance of a Mexican grandfather's living room, combining elevated sophistication with an inherent sense of comfort and hospitality. Infused with the nostalgic charm of an 80s residence, the interior embraces bold amber colors, harmoniously intertwined with luxurious textures and patterns that seamlessly blend traditional elements with a modern flair.
The restaurant's layout is thoughtfully divided by angular, handmade zellige tile portals, creating intimate rooms that evoke a sense of cozy seclusion. These portals not only contribute to the overall aesthetic but also serve as architectural elements that frame the bar in the back room, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
Situated deep within the space, the bar is a hidden gem that beckons patrons with its alluring presence. From the street, a warm amber arch of LED and copper paneling acts as a beacon, guiding guests towards the heart of the establishment. This captivating interplay of light and material transforms the bar into a focal point, seamlessly connecting the allure of the exterior with the inviting atmosphere within.
This design marries the familiarity of a cherished family space with the vibrancy of the East Village, creating a restaurant that not only delights the senses but also invites patrons to embark on a journey of culinary and visual indulgence.
New York, NY
Ma-dé is an ode to the ocean in both cuisine and design. A burst of bright tones and colors, it occupies an intimate wedge of a space in NoLita. Ma-dé, meaning “second born” in Indonesian, is two doors down from Wayan, the Chef’s “first born” on lively Spring Street. Inspired by the beaches of Bali, the design of Ma-dé compliments the refined menu of raw fishes and fresh vegetables. Short of filling the space with sand, Ma-dé is a refreshing dining experience that transports you to the Balinese coast.
From the street, the minimal glass facade allows for clear views into a vibrant and colorful space. The entry door is playfully obscured with textured amber glass and is layered with leaves and palm fronds, encouraging guests to peek around to see the activity inside.
With the space being less than 10’ wide, the layout was a spatial challenge to accommodate guests, staff, and an extensive bar program. Too narrow for a traditional bar, two bartenders occupy separate stations: one facing patrons in the front and one tending to diners in the back. A shared leathered-quartzite back bar showcases an exaggerated clam shell display of garnishes, bitters, and decorative barware. A hanging metal shelf of bottles and plants hints at the hanging shelves of Wayan, tying the story of the two restaurants together. Blue, green, and beige glazed dimensional tile is a pixelated interpretation of the dynamic jungle and beachscapes that anchor the restaurant concept. Antique gold mirrors line the room and are dotted with warm capiz sconces, highlighting faces as well as the food. Above, nautical ropes decorate the ceiling while creating swooping shadows below. Seashell plaster surrounds the mirrors and holds them in place as if coastal winds eroded the surface to expose these treasures.
The stuccoed shells blend into the dining room while keeping the original urban brick walls exposed, reminding guests that they are still, in fact, in NYC. The dining space is enveloped in a gold capiz wallcovering that is layered with the dramatic, curvaceous shadows of the oyster-shaped bamboo pendants above. Guests share a long communal banquette and Bali-sourced teak tables are activated with bubbly sea glass glassware, colorful pastel plates, and delicate shell-inspired dessert bowls. An L-shaped banquette caps the dining area, culminating in front of a glass and metal screen similar to the entry door. Walls beyond are lined with beachy-washed wood millwork for server stations and display knick knacks found by the Chef and his family while on surf trips in Bali.
Chicago, Illinois
A refresh of a neighborhood classic, the new design of Benchmark incorporates new materials with a retro approach. Vibrant tiles and plants highlight a space full of natural woods and warm leather upholstered benches. Working with the team to understand the new menu and approach with updated branding concepts, the interior design compliments the rebranding of a familiar establishment.
New York, NY
Leveraging the inherent drama of the stone bar and wood sculpture, the reimagining of Kobo elevates both the functionality and ambiance of the dining experience. The infusion of rich, dark colors and textured elements serves to create a sophisticated backdrop, allowing the distinctive feature bar to take center stage and command attention.
The addition of new sconces and banquettes not only enhances the overall scale of the space but also contributes to an improved lighting scheme, creating an inviting atmosphere for patrons. A thoughtfully designed lounge area near the entrance introduces a dynamic dining option, enticing the passerby on the street to engage in the vibrant activity within.
To complete the transformation, integrated lighting seamlessly woven into the millwork contributes to a captivating and moody backdrop, setting the stage for an enchanting evening in the heart of the Village. The redesigned Kobo emerges as a harmonious fusion of aesthetic appeal and functional excellence, promising an elevated and memorable dining experience for all.
Yonkers, NY
Elevating the brewing experience, Simple Motive Brewing stands proudly as the flagship brand within the meticulously restored confines of The Mills, formerly known as the Alexander Carpet Mills. The taproom is thoughtfully designed to not only showcase the brewing tanks but also to accentuate the industrial heritage embedded in the fabric of the space. The charm of the past is seamlessly preserved through the existing exposed brick and wood structure, enveloping visitors in a welcoming embrace, where history converges with modernity.
Simple Motive Brewing's presence within The Mills not only pays homage to the site's industrial roots but also breathes new life into the space. It becomes a testament to resilience and regeneration, where patrons can immerse themselves in the juxtaposition of heritage and innovation, savoring both the rich history of the building and the exciting future of craft brewing.
Read more:
https://westchestermagazine.com/food/beer/simple-motive-brewing-co-yonkers/
photos by Ryan Noel
New York, NY
Crafted exclusively for Wayan, the enchanting streetside dining pavilion serves as an extension of the very essence that defines Wayan's unique charm. Enclosed in a layer of translucent corrugated plastic, the architectural framework of the dining structure integrates bamboo in a geometric array, adding both depth and intrigue to the structural design.
The ambiance is illuminated by the warm glow of rattan pendants, creating an inviting atmosphere. The sides of the pavilion are adorned with lush greenery, transforming the space into a charming streetside jungle, offering patrons a delightful connection with nature. The doors showcase a batik pattern reminiscent of Wayan's distinctive facade, seamlessly marrying the indoor and outdoor elements.
Adding a sustainable touch to the design, the interior furniture, crafted by Re-ply, has been repurposed for the dining structure. The result is a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality, where Wayan's spirit effortlessly spills out onto the streets, inviting guests to indulge in an unforgettable dining experience.
New York, NY
Seats : 96 / 2,900sf (designed while at Rockwell Group)
Nestled on Spring Street, WAYAN is an ode to the Balinese and French backgrounds of Cedric and Ochi Vongerichten, co-owners with Ezra William. The low-key but posh space is lit with warm Indonesian-inspired fixtures and filled with lush plants to create a tropical oasis in the middle of the city. The front room is highlighted with a bright and glowing bar while a corridor displays unique Indonesian spices as well as framing a copper-clad chef's counter and open kitchen. The back room is flanked by Balinese wood carved banquettes and delicate metal pendants. Activity from the kitchen can be seen from this room and becomes a key part of the guests’ experience.
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/23/dining/wayan-restaurant-review.html
https://ny.eater.com/2019/4/16/18311018/wayan-vongerichten-nyc-restaurant-review
https://www.dezeen.com/2019/04/01/wayan-restaurant-rockwell-group-new-york-city/
Jakarta, Indonesia
Seats : 215 / 765sm (designed while at Rockwell Group)
Vong Kitchen is the primary hotel lobby restaurant for the Alila Hotel in SCBD Jakarta. The design is meant to reflect a New York - style restaurant that is upscale yet comfortable and approachable.
A double-sided bar services both the indoor and outdoor lounge area and acts as the hotel lobby bar. The walls are paneled with oak and glass, allowing for the restaurant to be closed off while the lounge remains in service to the hotel.
The dining area is designed with a large open kitchen and service bar used for display and decorative lamps emitting dappled light through perforated metal shades. Oversized banquettes and floor lamps add an element of comfort while contrast upholstery piping and stone inlaid floor contribute to the high-end atmosphere of the Jean Georges restaurant. Indonesian art and a custom wine display add a layer of detail and warmth.
Jakarta, Indonesia
Seats : 138 / 365sm (designed while at Rockwell Group)
Le Burger is the little sister restaurant to Vong Kitchen. Featuring an extensive burger and beer menu, the restaurant is designed with light-hearted elements including a butcher block bar top, stained concrete floors, and colorful upholstery attached with leather straps. Floating crystal pendants cover the bar and conduit light fixtures run playfully around the space. Charred shou sugi ban wood contrasts with antique mirror and copper fittings to create a unique palette of materials.
The outdoor beer garden is composed of a terracing of seating areas anchored by large trees that puncture the overhead pergolas. Diverse banquette, bar, and lounge seating create a casual atmosphere that frequently hosts live music. The front window folds open to allow guests to have an indoor/outdoor seating arrangement. An open kitchen adds to the exciting dining experience.
https://nowjakarta.co.id/dining/dine/le-burger-arrives-in-the-capital
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Seats : 237 / 14,000sf (designed while at Rockwell Group)
Salum Vidanta Riviera Maya is composed of an outdoor marketplace and several interconnected outdoor restaurant experiences. The market is composed of rustic paved sidewalks and palapa-roofed retail stands containing jewelry, clothing, snacks, and drinks. Hammocks and other leisurely seating areas allow for a slow stroll through the market.
Step down from the market and you are underneath the large steel and wood canopies covering the waterside bars and restaurants. Here, the seating floats on the edge of a continuous shallow pool that connects the six restaurants. Colorful lighting, tiles, and seating is unique to each venue and is tied together with a warm and rustic wood structure. Large bars and open kitchen counters ensure a unique experience at each restaurant while careful shifts in elevation gently separates each venue.
https://www.travelagentcentral.com/hotels/vidanta-riviera-maya-opens-outdoor-beach-market
Las Vegas, Nevada
Seats : 337 / 9,850sf (designed while at Rockwell Group)
Greene St. Kitchen is an homage to the street art of SOHO New York. The 10,000sf restaurant is entered through a speakeasy arcade with Bisazza video game-inspired floor. Once inside, one enters the lounge composed of blue-stained wood wall panels with extra-large crown moldings.
Moving into the first dining room, double-sided art by Cleon Peterson is painted on the pivoting screens that separate the lounge from the restaurant. Vhils artwork flanks the room lined with plush banquettes while playful lighting and colorful acoustic ceiling panels cap the space.
The main dining room is detailed with features from NY fire stairs and storefront security gates. The outdoor seating becomes more relaxed as people enter freely from the pool deck. A smaller bar is on the center axis of the restaurant and main lounge bar, connecting the 4 rooms.
https://vegas.eater.com/2019/3/22/18271208/greene-st-kitchen-now-open-palms
Chicago, Illinois
Seats : 420 / 15,500sf (designed while at Rockwell Group)
TAO Chicago could only be located in one of the most iconic buildings of downtown Chicago : the landmarked Chicago Historical Society building which was built in 1896. The juxtaposition of the Romanesque architecture with the hip, underground Asian aesthetic of TAO made for a challenge spatially and programmatically. The restaurant is located on the first two floors and required eliminating part of a 36 inch thick load bearing brick wall in order to achieve the dramatic double height grand space of the restaurant that houses the symbolic statue of TAO restaurants, the Quan Yin.
Components of the lounge and restaurant follow cues from other TAO locations, including a featured sushi bar and Hush murals throughout. Bold yet delicate light fixtures range in size throughout, inspired by Asian lines and materials. A 30’ long bar in the Ink Lounge anchors the room and can be seen through the private dining rooms and the patterned metal screens of the dining steps.
https://michiganavemag.com/tao-chicago-design-spotlight
https://rddmag.com/design/2001-tao-chicago-takes-advantage-of-impressive-space
Chicago, Illinois
Seats : 100+/ 9,g00sf (designed while at Rockwell Group)
Located above the TAO restaurant, the nightclub is entered through the north outdoor alleyway that is lined with modern Japanese gates and glowing red fabric. The nightclub takes advantage of the existing architecture and vaulted ceilings to create two nightclubs that can be combined for the largest of TAO events. Three bars and two DJ booths can accommodate thousands yet is also detailed to allow private events and small parties. A large restroom with its own restaurant lounge and bar connects the two clubs, allowing for a unique experience while at either venue.
Bali, Indonesia
Nestled in Kuta, Zazzy's is a haven for New York-style pizza, extending its iconic brand from the bustling streets of NYC to the seaside plaza of Bali. The casual yet inviting atmosphere features comfortable banquettes, vibrant patterns, and a touch of urban grit, providing a perfect setting for pizza enthusiasts to indulge in the renowned Zazzy's experience.
Inside, subway tiles and Zazzy's artwork adorn the space, creating a stylish fusion of metropolitan charm against a beach-inspired backdrop. This unique blend of urban and tropical elements transforms Zazzy's into a chic retreat, offering patrons not only a taste of authentic New York pizza but also an immersive experience that captures the essence of both worlds.
Portland, Oregon
Fetch Coffee Roasters is an exceptional coffee for an exceptional cause: they donate a portion of their proceeds to dog shelters, sponsoring a different shelter each month. With such a great ethos, it’s no surprise that their flagship is a fun and bright space. Located in downtown Portland, Fetch keeps an industrial base while adding layers of wood, plants, and tidbits of color. A beautiful white San Francisco roaster is highlighted with a large black circular backdrop, a nod to the graphic design of the bag. A minimal and comfortable design encourages coffee-drinkers to spot the colorful labels and products while supporting a great cause.
Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, Nevada
Providing architectural design and coordination services for Bobby Flay’s Brasserie B in Caesars Las Vegas. Interior design by Olivia Jane Design.
Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, Nevada
Providing architectural design and coordination services for Bobby Flay’s Amalfi in Caesars Las Vegas. Interior design by Olivia Jane Design.
