The intent was to design a place that was open and inviting at the same time. Given the large windows along two faces of the pizzeria, the view from outside becomes extremely important.
From the outside, the branding is placed on the shorter face to be visible from the main road. Along the longer length, one sees the open plan layout on the inside.
The plan is divided into 3 parts-
• Seating area which is a combination of a high counter with bar stools along the window (as requested by the client) and 4 tables with seating for 4 people each.
• Service counter / queuing area- a large service area and a significant display area for the pizzas. The cash counter is placed at one end so the customers see the entire range before ordering. The soft drink refrigerator is kept opposite the cash counter for easy monitoring. The entire wall behind the counter is finished in a matte black laminate that could be used as a chalk board for an ever changing menu
• The kitchen area which is kept at the end with access to the service counter. The kitchen has not been detailed out but all the equipment has been placed with dimensions as provided by the client. For access of the equipment into the kitchen, a part of the service counter in the main area is kept removable on castors. Keeping in mind the largest of the equipment (1.2m x 1.2m), the service space and the door has been kept of a larger dimension. A store, a sink and access to a service toilet is provided in the kitchen
One of the key components of the design is the flexibility. The seating area has been designed so that the frosted glass partitions can be moved to line up with the wall. The tables can be lined up along the wall, the chairs stacked on top of each other and the bar stool slid under the continuous counter. This would provide a large open space for special functions- times when the entire premises is taken by one party.
In terms of the design vocabulary, a very simple / minimalist material palette is suggested. White / brown and blacks are the prominent colours suggested in the design. It is suggested that the brick walls be stripped off the plaster to expose the bricks (and subsequently painted white). An off-white laminate floor is suggested. The AC ducts are exposed to give an industrial appeal to the place. Modern classics- tolix chair / stools and tables have been used in the design.
For the lighting, a combination of mood lighting (for the general seating) provided by clear glass pendants with Edison lamps and focus lights (for the service area) to highlight the chalk board and the pizzas are suggested. Task lighting is suggested in the kitchen.
