The lighting design brief for the ground level was to create an inviting and convivial atmosphere consistent with and supportive of an interior design inspired by the ambience and aesthetic of the French Bistro. We were asked to create a flexible lighting system that worked for different table configurations and design a scheme suitable for day and night time operation. Our lighting design challenge was to create an inviting and relaxed atmosphere amongst a hard palette of white brick tiles and mirrors. Downstairs, where the bar and private dining rooms are located, the lighting design needed to complement an interior design theme which utilised a darker palette of materials and a lower ceiling height (seven feet). Our focus in this area was on creating an ambience of intimacy and comfort. The private dining rooms were required to have their own feel and identity distinct from the bar and upstairs dining area.
For the basement level we selected free standing shaded lamps to overcome the lack of available height. Concealed lighting was used throughout to highlight features, fixtures and fabrics. The custom designed pendant over the bar makes use of French fabrics and trim and assists with the French aesthetic link to the upstairs space.
