Dining and Decor: Restaurants

Sunday, January 9, 2011

It's all about details

Did you read the recent post over at Beach Bungalow 8? The post is about a chair with a rather unique detail- the ring pull on the back of the chair. And maybe not so unique anymore as this detail is seeming to pop up more and more frequently. I first fell in love with it a few years ago when Italian architect Michele Bonan designed JK Place Capri. Both photos are Bonan designs and this little detail seems to be one of his signatures.

JK Place (Capri, Italy)

Hotel Vendome (Paris, France)

The question posed to readers on Megan's blog was whether or not you like this particular chair detail. The comments were a mixed bag. Here is how I responded:

Megan's post got me thinking in general about details in design. Details are very important to me and I will fret over the smallest feature. I never overlook them because they can make all the difference. You know, the difference between "wow" and "woooow".

Here are a few design details that I absolutely love. From these photos you can see how they add interest or in some cases actually make the piece.

Ribbon and nailhead trim. The space between the nailheads shows off the pretty pink ribbon.

Button detail.

Contrast welting.

Drapery detail in my office. I added a Windsor Smith fabric ("Purpose") to a pair of off-the rack drapery panels for a custom look.

So, my dear readers, I will leave you with this quote from Ludwig Mies van der Rohe:

"God is in the details."

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Scott's Seafood Restaurant & Bar

I typically don't go to seafood restaurants because I don't like fish. However, I do enjoy shellfish. Bring on the shrimp, crab, lobster, and scallops any day. I have passed by Scott's Seafood Restaurant & Bar in Orange County, California countless times over the years but have never dined there until a few days ago. I went with an open mind not knowing what to expect and of course I carefully looked over their menu on-line before venturing out. After all, I wanted to make sure there was something on the menu that I would enjoy. I have to admit I was amazed at the impeccable service and delicious food. The meal was amazing and the presentation was beautiful. We can't wait to go back.

The dining room of the restaurant has a very coastal chic, comfortable feel with a mix of tables and booths. I thought that the leather on what could be an ordinary rattan dining chair was a nice design touch. Obviously, a design well thought out.

These petite glass lamps are at every booth. Very modern.

The open kitchen with a beautiful display of copper cookware.

The restaurant also has a dedicated lounge known as The Murano Bar. It is appropriately named after the Murano glass chandelier, a focal point of the room. The Murano Bar has a completely different vibe: chic and completely modern.