WORDS Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Supplied (Sonny & Irene, QBar Johannesburg); Marijke Willems (Nando’s)
We take a look at the three proudly South African spaces shortlisted for the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards 2023
Featuring 193 projects across 18 categories and 36 countries, this year’s shortlist for the annual Restaurant & Bar Design Awards is packed with seriously stylish spaces, including Sonny & Irene in Cape Town, QBar Johannesburg and Nando’s colourful #PERiTricks pop-up which sprung up in Braamfontein.
Sonny & Irene
RBDA23 Shortlisted Category: In Another Space
Sonny and Irene by Kove Collection located at the Station House in Sea Point beautifully captures the essence of nostalgia while infusing it with a modern sensibility. The interior, designed by Soda Custom, draws its inspiration from the Art Deco movement that was so prominent in Sea Point. The decor pops with pink pastel tones accented with classic marble finishes. Touches of oak pull the space together and add an element of warmth to the inviting restaurant.
“We wanted to create something special, something that was not-your-average neighbourhood cafe bakery,” explains Head of Operations, Alison Thomas. “We envisage this to be a place loved by locals and visitors alike – whether it be a morning meeting, a lazy lunch, or an evening of cocktails.”
QBar Johannesburg
RBDA23 Shortlisted Category: In Another Space
Situated at Oxford Parks in the heart of Johannesburg, Qbar by Quoin Rock epitomises an experience destination, offering wine, food, signature drinks and a great atmosphere. The breathtaking space was designed by professional architect Yuliya Gaiduk who made sure that no detail was overlooked – every piece of art and decor is a key element of the overall design.
Yuliya and Charles Haupt, the mastermind behind Bronze Age, faced a interesting challenge when tasked with creating the space’s centrepiece. Their aim was to explore the artistic boundaries of brass, reshaping this exquisite material into a mesmerising spectrum of natural hues and textures. The Cabernet Sauvignon leaf wall panel was designed to illuminate the space at night.
A combination of timber and brass finishes with green marble and smoky mirror accents complete the backdrop.
Nando’s #PERiTricks Pop-up
RBDA23 Shortlisted Category: Visual Identity
This vibrant pop-up, which ran from 24 June and 10 July 2022 in Braamfontein, was brought to life by Stretch Architects and local design studio, Studio H. Celebrating local creatives, this playful space brought an edge of afro-futurism and clever out-of-the-box thinking to the forefront.
The team joined forces with food creative and stylist Kelesto Motau and textile and surface designer Bonolo Chepape. “Our collaboration with young stars like Bonolo and Keletso is part of our ongoing drive to nurture creative talent in South Africa. As an authentically home-grown brand, we welcome all South Africans to a seat at our table,” says Vanessa Nunes, the Marketing Manager for Groceries at Nando’s.
View the full shortlist for the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards 2023 at restaurantandbardesignawards.com.
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