Space as canvas. Bringing a brand into a space has to be my favorite part of this work. The logo is the brand introduction, the sign the handshake and the space is sort of that big brand bear hug.
I had the pleasure of working with Jeff and Thor as they started *literally* digging in to their project for renovating the space at 201 W. Martin Street in Downtown Raleigh. When we first met, the space was a blank slate with a big hump of cement in the middle of the dining area. Even with all of the dust and dirt, the space was breathtaking. The giant skylight provided the best light no matter how gray the skies or dark the days.
When I came on the project, the guys already had a logo [created by Paul Tuorto] and a solid visual brand on paper. My job was to translate this brand and feeling to the entire space.
It all started in the bathroom. We searched for sink ideas and came back with the same favorite. After that, it was on. Considering the diamonds and angles in their logo, we worked with these elements whenever making decisions — from glassware to table top designs. We worked for months on bar front designs, ordered many chairs for testing and sat at mock up banquette booths.
I worked with the team [including Lucas House from IronHouse Forge and Zach Sunderland from Haven Developers] to complete the project. The final piece, and my favorite part, was the mural that Taylor White created on the wall behind the bar. It’s a gorgeous piece of art that will surprise you with something new every time you sit at the bar.
I love taking friends and clients to the space— it’s a treat to sit inside or out — and they always bring the Brown YellowDog a bowl.
They’ve clearly made it work. Congrats to Jeff and Thor for winning the Restaurateur of the Year award with NCRLA just this month!!
If you haven’t been yet, GO! If you have, keep going!