Duende, a spirit concerned with the balance of light & dark, the evoking of soul and the push for and catering to a heavy heart, is the concept of Spanish folklore that was inspiration for this
progressive Spanish restaurant. Arcsine along with the client, Paul Canales, worked diligently to locate a space befitting of the complex design program.
A location was found within the historic, art deco Floral Depot Building in Oakland’s Uptown District. Opting to scrape the existing interior surfaces to expose the original brick clad columns and irregular concrete walls, the design team was able to create intimate moments of light and dark invoking the spirit of artistic intent of Spanish folklore. This creates a perception of shifting light as one moves through the space. Unique custom seating arrangements establish an intimate connection between chef, food and guests. New materials such as rusted metal panels and carbonized wood, were used to further the design intent and emphasize the use of honest materials. The freestanding metal clad bar divides the dining area from the adjacent and jointly owned coffee shop, wine retail space evoking a welcoming corner store or “bodega”.
Showcasing selected works from Raymond Saunders and installations by local artists, Peter St. Laurence and Sam Strand, the full service restaurant and bar reflects the surrounding
Uptown energy as a creative incubator.