PROJECT: BEL CAFÉ
CLIENT: David Hawksworth
Completed: 2011
Floor area: 1,500 sf
Occupant load: 30 + 6 patio + takeout
The design of Bel Cafe is intended to reflect the quality of the heritage materials used in the Hotel Georgia lobby, but utilised in a more contemporary setting. Materials were selected to reflect the character of the European cafe: rich dark wood panelling and cabinetry; zinc service counters and tabletops; honed black granite floors; and classic leather and wool upholstery seating.
The cafe features a long service counter with display cases, display shelves for a limited product selection and a dining area that seats 20. A custom chandelier, fashioned from chromed ribbons of aluminum, greets customers at the entrance. Banquette seating finished in leather and raspberry-hued wool sit on either side of the entrance. This seating is combined with zinc tables and dark-stained bentwood chairs to provide an opportunity to dine in store. Glass cases display the cafes offerings and espresso is served. Menu boards supported by the wood ceiling above are presented in a casual vintage fashion, further implementing the nod to the typical French cafe. A final touch is the use of custom designed wallpaper, extending the brand established by the wordmark, in a palette of soft colours.
Photography: © Janis Nicolay Photography
