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"The
city centre position is perfect for the restaurant, but the stringent
planning restrictions that surround a conservation area such as this
created enormous challenges for us," explains Simon Walker,
the project manager. "We also had to work around some serious
logistical problems with regards to site access, not least the fact
that on the first day of build the street was sealed off to re-lay
the surface!"
The lack of
space was also a challenge - with no storage area, materials had to
be delivered straight to site - a feat of timing managed to
perfection by site manager Kevin Lea, of Tudorworth Properties.
The result of
carefully resolved landlord issues, negotiations with building
control, and immaculate planning and timing, Don Salvo's is a space
with eye-catching sophistication, which draws customers through its
impressive revolving doors and sweeps them into the restaurant.
Avalon Design
took the circular and spiral theme that begins with the doors
throughout the 1100 sq foot trade area. Sweeping curves are built
into the four-tier stepped ceiling, and the main dining area is
elegantly furnished with rounded tables and chairs. The red, white
and green colours of Italy are shown in their more natural
incarnations - deep burgundy leathers, pale marble floors and fern
green walls.
"We
wanted to accentuate the Italian feel, and ensure that the
surroundings were in keeping with the top-end Italian menu that the
chefs have created, as well as reflect the quality of a well known
luxury leather luggage retailer next door," explains Patrick
Casey of Avalon Design.
The glistening
chandelier at the centre of the space forms the central focus, whilst
carefully placed sliding doors allow a section of the restaurant to
become a room for private dining.
The team have
worked so well together, and are so delighted with the results, that
they are now embarking on new projects where they can combine forces
and repeat their successful approach.
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