The Gourmet Bar at Novotel London Bridge is a welcoming, open-spirited and efficient interior by the UK and Japan based design studio Takagicapéran. The project marks a new approach by the Novotel brand to their public areas; the idea being to create destination venues that are equally attractive to the hotel guests and the local community. Takagicapéran specialise in translating brand stories into physical environments. In this project they have referred to many of the architectural and material details found at the nearby Borough Market, and have taken inspiration from the trading history of Southwark itself.
Acknowledging the role that open public areas now play in working cities, the Gourmet Bar provides the flexibility for guests to either relax, work, hold meetings or just socialise. The space is anchored around an impressive central bar, which features a bespoke black patinated steel framework and white marble and turquoise tiled counters. The lobby, lounge and restaurant are neatly defined by freestanding shelving units, which create intimate seating pockets throughout the space. A blend of more industrial materials such as sawn timbers, butchers block and antique brass are balanced with softer upholstered seating and vintage pieces throughout. Personality has been injected across the floor plate through the use of artworks and lifestyle curiosities; while designer Reiko Kaneko was commissioned to create a range of distinctive tableware installations.
SCP worked with Takagicapéran to specify a mixture of furniture typologies across the space. Of particular note is the use of Reiko Kaneko’s Orlando lounge chair for SCP – a piece with a small footprint, yet noticeably generous proportions.
Notable Brands Specified:
SCP
HAY
Vitra
Billiani
&Tradition
