The constraints of the original building form did not permit a totally glass roof, so in order to overcome the lack of natural lighting a 20-metre wide glass elliptical dome is inserted into the ceiling to give the sense of being at the top of the store. To further enhance the idea of ‘rooftop dining’, the lighting in the glass dome is linked to sophisticated roof mounted photo synthesizer, programmed to track and respond to weather conditions and light levels outside.
Fibre-optics illuminate the ceiling and the 500 glass light-rods line the walls, resulting in a complementary sequence of colour as day moves into night. The light American oak flooring which reflects the ceiling geometry, creates warmth throughout and offsets the elegant cream leather Brno classic dining chairs. Linked to the restaurant, a re-design of the adjacent bar uses a cool palette of white and creams to create a lighter, brighter more sophisticated space.
The distracting and theatrical elements that have become an intrinsic part of restaurant culture – coat checks, bar, reception – are banished from view. The innovative use of space and considered control of lighting and acoustics creates the balance between ‘buzz’ and comfort essential to modern dining.