The experience of dining extends beyond just the flavors on the plate; it encompasses the entirety of the ambiance, from seating to lighting. As Ben Krone, founder of Gradient Architecture, suggests, effective restaurant design subtly enhances the dining experience without overshadowing it. Remarkable design can be found in unexpected places, from Michelin-starred establishments to cozy diners and dive bars. Inspired by various aesthetics, these spaces reflect both modern minimalism and cherished vintage styles, offering unique sensory experiences.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Ben Krone, Danu Kennedy
Location: New York, Nashville, Warsaw, Brooklyn, South Korea
Design Firm: Gradient Architecture, Parts and Labor Design, Commune Design, NOKE Architects, The House Special Studio, Sukchulmok
Capital City Diner in Albany, New York, exemplifies the timeless appeal of American diners while embracing a contemporary aesthetic. Led by Danu Kennedy of Parts and Labor Design, the renovation aimed to preserve the diner’s historical essence. Key architectural elements, such as glass blocks and chrome detailing, were restored. The diner’s interior combines classic materials, including wood and vinyl, with modern lighting and color palettes. The design celebrates natural light which plays a pivotal role in enhancing the space’s ambiance.
Nashville boasts 888, a distinct combination of Japanese restaurant and vinyl lounge, which draws inspiration from Japan’s kissa bars. Created by Commune Design, the venue features wood paneling and a striking cobalt blue DJ stand. Emphasizing natural materials, the design integrates various elements like construction-grade plywood, washi papers, and linoleum. These materials not only contribute to the aesthetic but also enhance the sonic experience, reflecting the venue’s commitment to a meticulously curated audio environment.
Lola’s restaurant was conceived around a unique inspiration: an heirloom necklace belonging to chef Suzanne Cupp’s grandmother. The design, executed by Ben Krone, incorporates green jade tiles, ash wood, and a structured ceiling reminiscent of the necklace’s gold features. A distinctive architectural element is the restaurant’s layout, which highlights an open, green-tiled kitchen bar—typically hidden—from which culinary creations are crafted. This thoughtful design ensures that the kitchen becomes a focal point rather than a backdrop.
In Warsaw, Poland, Va Bene Cicchetti offers a Venetian-inspired dining experience, crafted by NOKE Architects. The restaurant features a striking burgundy and green color-blocked design inspired by Venice’s periodic floods, “acqua alta.” With open windows that integrate street sounds, the eatery fosters a sense of community. Designed for casual interaction, furniture is movable to accommodate groups of varying sizes. Guests place orders at the bar, adding to the informal and welcoming atmosphere of the space.
Brooklyn’s Entre Nous brings a slice of French charm to Clinton Hill, embodying the unpretentious elegance of Old World bistros. The House Special Studio’s Kiki Goti and Vincent Starapoli chose warm oranges and a copper bar that will develop a patina over time. The interior design pays homage to the historic building, ensuring the space feels integral to the neighborhood’s fabric. Each design choice inside Entre Nous is driven by the desire to prioritize conviviality and simplicity.
In South Korea, the rooftop Parconido Bakery Cafe draws its concept from European plazas, infusing the space with an Italian-inspired design by Hyunhee Park of Sukchulmok. The cafe features arched architecture and square tiles reminiscent of 1950s Italian style. The natural tones and gentle curves of the design elements foster a cozy atmosphere that invites patrons to linger. Parconido combines elements of tradition and innovation, resulting in a space that reflects both its Korean location and European inspiration.
