"The new normal"

Challenge

In 2020, the Danish tourism, hotel, and restaurant industry lost DKK 21 billion in turnover due to COVID-19-related restrictions.1 The gradual reopening of restaurants was regulated through mandatory area requirements, table reservations, and limited opening hours, among other things.2 In other countries where COVID-19 has resulted in restrictions, similar effects are seen:

In the US, the National Restaurants Association concluded in their 2020 annual report that more than 110,000 restaurants in the country had been either temporarily or permanently closed in the past year.3 At the same time, it is clear that restaurants, bars, and similar places where people meet have played a central role in the spread of infection in several countries.4/5

Solution

The Indian restaurant chain Social was also hit by tough restrictions. However, the owners accepted that social distancing and ongoing changes in area requirements would remain part of reality going forward. At one of the chain’s restaurants in New Delhi, restrictions have been translated into a new interior design concept, in which the restaurant’s guests are separated by means of interior design elements that also create spatial and visual interest and support the restaurant’s atmosphere. The concept consists of a ’breaking up’ of the room into smaller zones, and guests are separated by transparent walls or curtains or simply placed on different, staggered levels. Together with initiatives such as procedures for disinfection and increased ventilation, the decor ensures that restaurant guests can eat and drink safely, in accordance with safety regulations.

The example shows how innovative design solutions can solve a specific problem and create safety for users – helping restaurants continue to do business despite restrictions – and at the same time create an aesthetic experience beyond the usual.

Taxonomy

Sphere: Trade/Service, Culture/Leisure

Timescale: Long Term

Type: Interior Design, Graphic Application

User Group: Employees/Service Providers, Customers/Users

Social With Distancing is the restaurant chain Social’s answer to “the new normal"

Typical restarant seating

Seating according to Social With Distancing

Project and location: The Playhouse, Tokyo, Japan

Contributor: Haruki Oku Design and PAN- PROJECTS

Established: 2020