5 minute read
When art meets food
from CCR June 21
A special supplement to:
Interview by Michael J. Pallerino
When art meets food
Prime seafood. Steak. Sandwiches and salads. If you’re looking for the best place to do some good old American shared plates, Bennett’s American
Cooking is the place for you. With freshly prepared and house made plates, Bennett’s is the latest offering from Bennett’s Hospitality Group.
The atmosphere, designed by international, full-service architectural design firm slick+designusa, features an expansive bar at the heart of the restaurant—providing an upscale, yet casual, dining experience. Bennett’s is the brainchild of Brian and Susan Bennett (Brian was a founding partner of the Paul Martin’s American Grill chain, which has locations in California, Texas and Arizona). With the style, form and function dictated by slick+designusa, designer for some of the world’s foremost commercial developments, Bennett’s will be a force to be reckoned with in the restaurant space. To get a snapshot of the artistry behind the design, we sat down with slick+designusa founder and Principal Rocco Laudizio, who is internationally recognized for his signature style and innovative vision.
Give us a snapshot of the Bennett’s brand?
Bennett’s American Cooking is focused on serving fresh, local food. Prime seafood and steaks, sandwiches, salads and shareable plates. A wallet and health-conscious menu offering paleo, gluten free, keto, vegan, and heart healthy options.
What were some of the things that inspired the concept behind your design?
We were inspired by the honest approach to food and service and used that to propel a design that is as honest, straightforward, and approachable for the customers.
What type of look and feel were they going for?
The clients have a wide range of customers. We created a space great for a family meal, a romantic destination for date night or to celebrate a special occasion.
What takeaway were you going for with the design? What do you want customers to remember?
We wanted to create a space that is inviting and not too pretentious while also being sophisticated. We want the customers to remember the great time they enjoyed in a unique environment.
How does the design of the restaurant cater to what today’s consumers are looking for?
Bennett’s American Kitchen is focused on fresh, local ingredients and with our design for the restaurant, we really wanted to set the stage for an amazing dining experience. That meant focusing on natural materials and an earthy palette to create a welcoming environment both sophisticated and timeless, yet as approachable as the ever-changing menu.
Can you walk us through the how and why of your design?
We could not change the main footprint, so we worked with the concept from the previous restaurant which was inspired by “theater in the round.” The space is open-air but incorporates different zones, so even though there is separation, there is an overall feeling of continuity and togetherness. After the original design was approved and scheduled for construction, COVID forced us to follow new restricted guidelines. We needed to incorporate glass partitions and redesign the seating plans throughout the restaurant to accommodate new seating limits. Our original esthetics were not changed, only the way they were applied to accommodate the new restrictions created by COVID.
Take us through your construction and design strategy.
Our strategy is simple, provide detailed, yet crystal clear drawings of all our design
elements so any contractor can execute our vision. We also provide multiple 3D renderings of the entire space so the contractor can reference and visualize the space they build. Our desired option is to provide the millwork and built-in seating systems from our preferred vendors. This is done so we can provide the quality control necessary on these very important items.
What’s the biggest issue today related to the construction side of the business?
We have seen the costs and availability of building materials increasing by two to three times. This also includes all FF&E items, which have delayed any construction schedule put into place.
The main footprint of the restaurant had to be kept, so we worked with the concept from the previous restaurant, which was inspired by “theater in the round.”
Talk about sustainability. What are you doing?
We strive to use materials locally sourced for each project. When possible, we prefer materials made to order which also cuts down on waste, opting to specify products made of recycled materials, as well products fabricated for longevity.
What’s the secret to creating a “must visit” restaurant environment in today’s competitive landscape?
When we design a restaurant and or hotel, the design will be current and timeless so
it appeals to the masses and stays in style. High design, simplicity, functionality and a timeless vibe is our philosophy.
What motivates today’s consumer?
Locally sourced and organic ingredients in their food and beverages, which also translates into what they are expecting from the designed environment in which they consume these items.
Describe a typical day.
Meetings with clients, hand drawings and or sketches to pass on to my team, lots of espresso, renderings, material selections, conversations with teams on active job sites. Sometimes it can be an organized three-ring circus with these projects going on, but it always gets done.
Tell us what makes your brand so unique?
High design, simplicity, functionality and a timeless vibe is our design philosophy for buildings, hotels, yachts, restaurants, nightclubs and residential homes. CK
One-on-One with
Rocco Laudizio, Principal slick+designusa
What’s the most rewarding part of your job? Just hearing clients tell me, “Everyone came up to me and said the place looks amazing.”
What was the best advice you ever received? Always stick to your design philosophy when working with clients and always measure twice and then cut once.
How do you like to spend your down time? Yachting and car racing. What’s the best thing a client ever said to you? “You’re the best and I am so happy you helped me with my project”
Name the three strongest traits any leader should have and why. Consistency, organization and strength.
What are you going to do once we get back to some sense of normalcy? Probably spend a few months in Spain to relax.
