Flame grilled chicken is not the only thing drawing people to the Nando’s store in Maponya Mall of late.
The breathtaking interior design of the store has become a favourite amongst Sowetans much like the chicken itself.
The interior design of the restaurant is so extremely beautiful and delicate that it was even awarded the 2015 Silver Loerie Award for Three Dimensional and Environmental Design.
The restaurant was a hive of activities on Wednesday last week when Andrew Human, CEO of the Loerie Awards did the official handover of the award.
Innovation and creativity were some of the most important aspects the judges had to consider according to Human.
The whole idea behind the design of the restaurant was to bring a unique experience to the people of Soweto.
The whole restaurant is a fusion of local art and design which is pleasing to the eye even more than the chicken they serve.
“This restaurant is a great example of innovation and creativity in so many levels. Innovation is about doing risky things sometimes. The fact that this is in Maponya, in Soweto is a big achievement from a location point of view,” says Human.
A combination of bold colours and unique materials used in the design not only reflects the vibrancy of Soweto but the uniqueness of the township is vivid as well.
This is the first Nando’s restaurant where in addition to a diverse chicken menu, people get served inspiration in a form of local arts hanging on the walls.
Nando’s head of design and development Michael Spinks thinks the design is more than fitting for Soweto especially now that South Africans are more sophisticated and appreciate design and art more.
“We wanted to bring something more special and unique to Maponya Mall. This is about changing people’s mindsets and make Nando’s a place where they can come with their friends or families to chill and have a good time,” says Spinks.
The oversized seating pods have proven to be a favourite amongst revellers. They are not just about sitting while having a meal but they serve as an element of elevated feeling of status.
The attractive red carpet invites customers to the upper floor which gives one a feeling of VIP. Designers call the whole experience a true gift to the Sowetans by Nando’s.
