Ground Central

A few years ago, one of our more active clients enlisted us to take over the design of his existing brand of coffee shops here in NYC, Ground Central.  We have been slowly introducing new design elements, transitioning the look bit by bit.  Sometimes, editing an existing design can be just as if not more interesting than creating something new.  It requires a different kind of analysis, considering the existing clientele.  Depending on the venue, it can be risky to make a drastic shift.  But sometimes, a severe turn is necessary, if you need to capture a different crowd.  In the case of a coffee shop, familiarity and comfort is part of the formula.  So we are being careful as we go.

An interesting element that will remain as part of the design is their signature custom murals, created by an artist from Australia, specifically for each location.  They're really cool, here is an example, outside of the newest location currently under construction...


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Mamo Continues...

We checked back in on our Miami restaurant project last week, and found that the demo phase was complete.  We are now in the bidding stage for a General Contractor, and hope to start construction within the month.  We learned that a close relative of Fadi is opening a large restaurant on the same block, with a well known restaurant group from France & the Mid East... what are the chances??  Good company!  Working on the exterior design this week, as the restaurant will aim to open for the good-weather Fall season, here are some rendered views of how that's shaping up:




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Little Island

There's been a new addition to the West Side, called Little Island.  It happens to be one of my favorite structures in all of NYC, mostly since I have fully realized my love for all things formed concrete.  It's located just to the West of The Whitney, another favorite, which is also near the base of The Highline, yet another asset of this part of town.  We've also recently learned that a Shake Shack will inhabit the space underneath that entrance to the promenade, which will undoubtedly revitalize that part of Meatpacking, which has been slightly dormant since the pandemic.  

In any case, Little Island is a nicely landscaped dynamic little park, with few visual/experiential attractions, lawns for lounging, and a full amphitheater overlooking the NJ skyline.  We really appreciate the organizations that have made things like this possible near our home, namely The Hudson River Park Trust along with The Diller-von Furstenberg Family Foundation.  They have reimagined and transformed several areas of our community, which are used and enjoyed by locals and visitors.  If you haven't been, I encourage a visit as we enter into better weather.  www.littleisland.org  



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New Opening

We are happy to announce the opening of a new room for our client, Gennaro, in Hamilton NJ!  It's bold, and it's pretty, and we wish him continued success there with his growing business!  

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Basquiat

Yesterday, we visited the Starrett Lehigh building, which is currently displaying works by Jean-Michel Basquiat.  By the time of his early death in 1988 at just 27, he somehow had the vision and drive to create some of the most recognizable and influential art work out there.  He was a trend setter then, and remains as such, with current collaborations from Coach to Tiffany's, and countless others.  His work was reflective of the societal issues of his time, most of which, unfortunately, are still relevant today.  The exhibit was haunting.

His studio on Great Jones, where he lived and worked, was right around the corner from our office, in one of the most creative hubs in Manhattan. 

The architecture of the exhibit was also of note.  The exhibition's designer, David Adjaye OBE, was the Architect behind The National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, DC.  Abbott Miller of Pentagram was responsible for the exhibition's identity.  




57 Great Jones Street Studio
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the Public

A few years ago, we were forced to stay at a hotel while our apartment was undergoing some necessary surgery.  We chose to stay at The Public Hotel in Soho, by Ian Schrager.  To our surprise, it was the best experience we have had outside of living in our own home, dare I say even better at times.  The vibe and comfort level that he has created, through various types of venues, materials, lighting, style of service, etc., made for an excellent environment to live and work in.  We would spend our days in the lounge working among an inspiring crowd (most of whom most likely were just using the place as "the new Starbucks" and not actually staying at the hotel), and the nights at one of the few restaurants there, if not in our small yet completely adequate and attractive room.  This hotel embodies the true essence of a lifestyle brand, mixing all things effortlessly.  It was and is where people want to see and be seen, for good reason.  We have just learned that this hotel brand is a passion for Schrager, which we can get behind 100%.  If only all hotel experiences came close to this one...  

PUBLIC HOTEL

https://hospitalitydesign.com/news/five-on-friday/april-15th-2022/ 

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Restaurant Design Q&A

1- How long does it take to design a restaurant:

On average, it takes about 2-3 months to fully design a restaurant and have plans ready for Department of Buildings submittal.  But the length of the process depends on several factors; renovation vs new construction, what type of occupancy if it falls under, ie: “Place of Assembly”, what if anything has been developed as far as concept, etc.

2- How long does it take to build a restaurant?

Depending on whether it’s a renovation or new construction, the process can vary between 4-6 months of construction, once the plans have been fully approved by local municipalities.

3- What is the cost of construction for a restaurant?

This depends greatly on the area.  In a metro area, it can be 30% more for a build-out, than if you are in a suburb.  In NYC, it can be $300 per square foot, or more, depending on what the concept calls for.  Certain concepts, such as fast-casual, could allow for a lower cost per sf.

4- Do you assist in establishing the restaurant design concept?

We like to be involved as early on in the process as possible.  A designer who specializes in restaurant design can help the client shape the restaurant concept or redirect it if need be, taking all factors into consideration.  It also allows for a most cohesive end result.   

5- What should one assume to pay for a restaurant chair?   

Commercially-rated chair costs can vary drastically, depending on the end use/concept.  For example, a fast-casual concept would typically call for a lower-end cafĂ© chair, which can be around $100.  The intended customer time dictates the comfort level, ie: if you want to turn tables quickly, you don’t want someone to be so comfortable that they stay for an hour or more.  However, when you are looking for more comfort at a mid-range restaurant, the cost would be around $250, while a high-end restaurant chair would start around $350.

6- Is it ok to follow certain trends when you are designing a restaurant in NYC or any other metro area?

Trends are tricky, because they come and go.  Once they go, the restaurant is at risk of no longer being current, and can therefore have a short lifespan.  Every restaurant should be authentic; true to the cuisine and to the character of the owner/chef.  Being current and in touch with how the industry is evolving based on the needs and behavior of customers is more important than following trends.

7- How many square feet does the kitchen require?

Kitchens on average are 30% of the total space.

8- How big should a space be for a restaurant use?

A good healthy size for a restaurant where efficiency is maximized is 150-160 seats.  This would require a space of approximately 3,500 SF. 

9- Do you do residential design as well as restaurant design?

We have loved the residences we have designed.  We were lucky in that those projects came from restaurant clients of ours, who happened to like our style.  It’s important for us, when it comes to residential design, that the clients are in tune with our tendencies.  It makes for an enjoyable process, and usually results in pleasant surprises for our clients, and their friends. 

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