Eclectic is Design Research Studio’s first project in France. The restaurant, located on the edge of the River Seine as part of the Beaugrenelle regeneration and is a project initiated by Phillippe and Fabienne Amzalak in association with notorious restauranteur / hotelier Jean-Louis Costes.
Inspiration
“The restaurant’s name ‘Eclectic’ evolved through the exploration of three concepts explored from the beginning of the project. The first study reflected the Entente Cordiale between France and England; the symbolic reconciliation between the two countries. The second idea related to the surrounding 1970s architecture, celebrating its modularity and brutalism - reminiscent of the heroic Le Corbusier era. And the third describes the evolution of the brasserie and comfort of the domestic kitchen.” Tom Dixon.
The eclectic nature of the restaurant is reflected in the way that the interior, ambience and culinary experience present a diverse and rich story, celebrating the best of both nations.
Design
Covering an area of about 560 m2, the restaurant boasts three main areas: the machine-efficient kitchen, traditional banquette dining and comfortable lounges which snugly fit into the curved glazed façade overlooking the river.
In order to maximise the space, the concrete sofit and steel ductwork are left exposed, celebrating the honest Brutalist revolution, while furniture presents itself as inviting, colourful, upholstered pockets.
In the same ethos the wall surfaces also contrast each other. Textured concrete and a huge backdrop of slick polished brass are set against floor surfaces in both polished, aggregate concrete and deep pile carpets, uniting and balancing the rough and smooth.
Most furniture and lighting pieces are custom designed for the space, derived from the modularity and simple geometric shapes of the 1970s. The central banquettes create a landscape of hexagons which interlock efficiently whilst playing with the variation in floor levels to create private zones. The central ‘stage’ is highlighted by an impressive 124 light, etched brass chandelier. Each individual piece of furniture is carefully considered; presented as precious, geometric objets d’art in a variety of metallic and timber finishes.
View Original