The owner of 20-year-old Brownes Bistro in midtown Toronto was looking for an upscale redesign of his classic neighborhood restaurant on a remarkably tight budget. B/A suggested an upscale, tailored look to appeal to a slightly younger crowd. A key component are the impressive, floor-to-ceiling mahogany wine cabinets installed to house the significant wine collection. The cabinets were designed, lit and positioned for maximum visual impact, directly opposite the entrance and at either end of the long interior banquette. The warm wood and wine bottles reinforce a cozy sense of well-being and comfort. B/A chose black and white photos to reflect a French bistro theme while the walls were painted a neutral white to allow the banquette, tailored fabric, wine cabinets, ceiling treatment and photos to assert themselves.