Photography by Andrea Behrends
partsandlabordesign.com, @pldnyc
We always start by creating a visual concept or a narrative, which bridges the gap between form and function. For this project, we also allowed the existing architecture to inform customer experience, leading in with high ceilings and a bar with plenty of standing room, then carrying through to more intimate dining spaces towards the back of the restaurant.
Coastal Italy and post-modern design with a touch of Bauhaus. Chef Calapa came to us with an idea of the food offerings which included light pastas, a variety of crudo and other seafood offerings. He supplied us with inspirational imagery that embodied a light palette of soft whites and creams, gradations of blues, light wood tones and textured plaster finishes.
With a smaller space we wanted to utilize more finite textures. So rather than using larger format tiles and patterns, we focused on the idea that everything is at eye level and very tactile. The tiles work so successfully together based both on size and on color variation. They pair well with the plaster finishes and take contours beautifully, as we have many soft curves throughout the space. The tile and grout grid also offer a bit of structure architecturally from afar, which creates a really nice contrast to some of the more hand applied finishes – all creating what we feel is a really fun composition.
For designer Philip Thomas Vanderford, Studio Thomas James, the third time really was a charm in creating a dream home for his long term clients.
