Design for a famous landmarked NYC Nightspot
Designing one of Downtown Manhattan's most popular summer spots was beyond FUN! The Duplex Outdoor Cafe is located on the busiest street corner in the West Village, and is one of the best people-watching spots in the City.
The first thing we did was to interview the staff members and see what would make it easier to do their job. We purchased huge adjustable umbrellas for the daytime, and used the same color to faux-paint a series of custom-built planter boxes - which not only delineate the space, but provide an opportunity for boxwood plants to give the feeling of nature.
LED market lights were added, which look great at night. Stainless steel tables are sleek and modern as well as extremely easy to clean, and comfortable aluminum and wood chairs to coordinate. The floor plan was laid out to maximize capacity. The response has been wonderful, and the cafe has become even more popular since the re-design.
The Cabaret Theater offers live entertainment every night. The manager wanted a space that looked great, was easy to maintain, and reflected the history of this club which has been a downtown staple for over six decades.
We chose new commercial grade carpeting that could handle an audience of 70 people coming and going two times per night. Dark-colored chairs, tables and tablecloths can handle their heavy use, and a dark faux finish wall was painted which gives great ambience when the lights are on, and "disappears" when performances are taking place to give focus to those on the stage. Tables and chairs were selected at different heights - shorter in front, taller in back, to give everyone in the audience a great view of the performance on stage.
Custom-painted images of the stars and celebrities who all got their start at the theater were commissioned, framed, and placed on the main wall. When the show is on, the house lights go down, and the theatrical lights go up on the stage. Walls and tables seem to disappear into the darkness, and the audience is sure to have a good time seeing their favorite performers!
