Historic Restaurant Tenant Space
Involvement: Lead Architect
Project Objective: A developer was renewing a historic downtown building complex and working with local businesses to lease space. One space on the first floor was envisioned to be a bar and restaurant. The objective was to create a cornerstone design fitting with the beautiful famed building while merging with a modern luxurious twist.
Below you will see the concept design process. First the existing space was studied, measured, and documented. Then a imagery board was created showcasing envisioned textures, colors, and materials. Finally, elevations and a schematic floor plan were drafted for the space.
This design was done while employed at Steven’s and Associates in Brattleboro VT.
Some design obstacles:
Sizing and fitting modern spaces and needs into a historic space.
Understanding existing historic designs and working closely with the Historic Board. It was important to not damage existing historic elements and make sure the new tenant space felt in-keeping with the time of the building. Being able to use these elements as guidance and integrating them into the new design so the space felt seamless was important.
Working closely with the client to make sure there staff work-flow needs were met. Kitchen flow, equipment placement, maintaining waitstaff views across spaces and other such items were all studied.
Multiple levels of apartments sat above the space and exterior facade changes where not allowed due to the historic grand. Ensuring equipment and venting were placed appropriately in the space to maintain HVAC access to the roof was a challenge with many already set obstacles.
