www.rddmag.com MARCH/APRIL 2023 p30 2023 Designers p Dish!
Openings
Aquavit, New York City
A New York institution, Aquavit brought elegant, seasonable Nordic dining to the city 30 years ago. Over the years, architecture and design firm Spacesmith worked with Aquavit to adapt and update its design. With this latest redesign, they teamed up again to engage a younger fine-dining clientele. The renovation opened the kitchen up to the main dining room, where a solid wall was replaced with gridded metal and glass to enable patrons to see the chef and the crew in action. A new entrance was also created. The earth-toned palette features products and materials sourced both in Scandinavia and the United States. A new wide-planked oak floor runs throughout the restaurant. In the dining room, a classic Scandinavian blue is used on the banquettes.
new and notable restaurants
Kate’s Ice Cream, Portland, Ore.
Designed by Casey Keasley of Casework, this pastel ice cream oasis came together during the height of the pandemic. Founder Kaitlyn Williams found a space that already had a full kitchen and had formerly housed a different ice cream shop. Washed in soft, candy-colored hues, guests are greeted by a brightly tiled custom ombre curved counter. The work of local artists and designers complements the local ingredients Williams employs in her vegan desserts. Along the back wall, a pastel mural by Lynzee Lynx brings vibrancy and dimension to the minimalist space. White oak furniture, custom designed by Casework and local furniture brand Bolster Furniture, provides a cozy spot to sit.
16 • restaurant development + design • M ARCH/APRIL 2023
By The Editors
Images by Bjorg Magnea
Images by Audra Rhodes