The Park

Nestled into a hillside in Lafayette, California, The Park is a locals favorite. From solo travelers to milestone celebrations, the restaurant is welcoming hub, the perfect place to clink glasses with friends old and new. Though much beloved by loyal guests, the dining room felt cold and unwelcoming, and the overall physical space not a match for the impeccable hospitality of the staff. Our team was tasked with updating the interiors and the brand to create a more intimate experience.

We envisioned a refresh that would create a more inviting atmosphere for celebrations and cherished moments. The given name guided this vision, reflected in timeless design elements and a palette of rich and verdant greens reminiscent of Parisian parks. The design and branding concept borrows the visual language of trellises, vines, and other natural features including a variety of plant life and a wallpaper mural from France, which wraps the interior walls to envelope diners in a romantic botanical scene.

In many cases, the existing high-quality furnishings were refinished and re-used, helping to keep the project’s carbon footprint significantly lower than replacing with new. Seating was reupholstered in rich plaids and vinyl leathers, and wood table tops were refinished with updated stains.

The bar, a favorite gathering spot, was re-imagined in a deep chocolate-black stain and expanded with custom millwork to create a focal point in the room. The bar now has ample storage and display space for bottles, as well as a dedicated space for a TV that blends seamlessly when not in use. The pendant lighting creates a room within the bar space, emitting a warm, ambient halo above the bartop.

The design strategy extended beyond the physical space, influencing printed items, digital applications, and even uniforms, seamlessly integrating the new identity throughout the restaurant. Variations of the logo, created using a system of trellis-and-vine inspired designs, adorn menu covers, coasters and matches.