Enology – St James, NY
Design leadership, project coordination, specialist finishes
Context
This project involved transforming a strip-mall location into a wine-focused restaurant and bar. The design needed to strike a careful balance – approachable rather than upscale, distinctive without overplaying the concept.
The aim was to create a space that felt like an entry point into the world of wine – somewhere to explore and learn without the formality or distance of traditional wine destinations.
My involvement
The client shared photographs and examples rather than a fixed brief. My role was to understand what made those spaces work and translate the relevant ideas into something that worked here.
I was responsible for the overall look and feel of the space, working alongside the project team to carry the design through as the build progressed.
Early digital rendering and finished space
Key Moments
- Translating varied visual references into a cohesive design language that felt accessible and grounded
- Making design decisions that elevated a challenging retail-shell location without overworking it
- Navigating ongoing creative tension within the project team while maintaining clarity and direction
Outcome
The finished restaurant feels welcoming, considered, and distinctive – a place designed to invite curiosity and enjoyment rather than intimidation. Despite the constraints of the site and the pressures of the process, the final result reflects a clear and consistent vision carried through to completion.
