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 tipping into theme or pastiche.
The aim was to create a space that felt like an entry point into the world of wine: somewhere to experience and learn without the formality or distance of traditional wine destinations.
The space before work began – stripped back and unresolved
Early spatial mock-up used to test layout, flow and atmosphere
My involvement
The client shared references from places that resonated with him — sending photographs and examples rather than a fixed brief. My role was to interpret those references, identify the underlying qualities that made them work, and apply them coherently within the constraints of the site.
I carried responsibility for the overall look and feel of the space, working alongside the project team to ensure the design intent was consistently understood and applied as the build progressed.
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
Carrying the work through
This project required sustained momentum from start to finish. I stayed closely involved throughout, pushing the work forward, resolving questions as they arose, and holding the overall visual direction steady as decisions were tested and revisited.
That continuity was essential to ensuring the space came together as intended.
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.
