GALLERY: Feast for the eyes
BLACKHEATH – Nando's invites patrons to linger longer by planting posteriors in peri-peri hot designer chairs.
Design Partnership in Parktown North was the lead design agency for the renovation of the Nando’s Blackheath Concept Store. It is the first of all Nando’s stores globally to move from a predominantly takeaway to a sit-down model.
Design manager Sharyn Andrianatos explained that their brief was to convert traditional take-away customers into restaurant patrons.
“We started outside by ‘Nando’ing’ the whole façade with an intricate screen,” said Andrianatos. “Before you even enter, we want you to be aware that this is a different experience. It’s Nando’s, but more.”
Inside, the lines between the take-away and sit-down sections are blurred. Customers are greeted by a host who will direct them to either the take-away or seated section.
“The take-away section has no overhead take-away menu, and no visible queues,” explained Andrianatos. “A new bar concept counter, with counter top menus and bar stools, was introduced. Once you have placed your order you can take a seat on one of the bar stools, or comfy, genuine leather couches.”
The take-away section has a clear view of the sit-down section, with its Haldane Martin wire chairs, sculptural tree stump pedestals – handcrafted by One Good Turn which serve as condiment stations, handwoven rugs by Fibre Designs, and coloured, genuine timber floors.
“Blackheath was a trial model. It’s a good example of the aesthetic that Nando’s envisages for its brand, and will serve as the basis for new stores and future revamps,” said Andrianatos.
The Nando’s interiors teams across the world will start with 20 pieces by 10 local designers. No two stores will look exactly the same. Each one will be specific to the part of the world in which it is located, and the community it serves.
