At 15 feet wide and nearly 20 feet tall, the limited space for this project was challenging indeed.

The goal was to create a new restaurant and bar in a space adjacent to an existing full-service restaurant (owned by the same individual and designed by the same architect). Upstairs is a dining counter (inspired by a sushi bar), downstairs a bar.

The challenge was how to connect the upper and lower spaces and experiences – both to each other and to potential customers walking by. The design solution was to create a ribbon of stainless steel that serves as the bar downstairs and the dining counter upstairs. This element was conceived to be visible from the street and to draw attention to the upper level of the space.

The experience of the customer is varied. From tables located along the storefront that evoke an outdoor dining experience to a much more private and lounge-like space at the top/rear of the restaurant, the variety is surprising for a 1,000 square foot space. The customer and staff switch sides of the counter from one level to the other. A large cutout in the wall provides views into the existing restaurant space.