Published on Thursday, Sep 2 2010 by
As a supplier of bespoke banquette seating to Jamie Oliver’s restaurant group Jamie’s Italian, Craftwood Interiors recently completed an installation of seating at Jamie’s ItalianCambridge. A 220 seat restaurant situated in the stunning 19th Century Grade II listed Guildhall on Wheeler Street.
Designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio (MBDS), and working with main contractor duBoulay Contracts, Craftwood Interiors were commissioned to realise the banquette designs proposed by MBDS on the project. All Jamie’s Italian restaurants that Craftwood have completed to date have had specially designed and manufactured sprung base seating installed.....each one with different design touches. This ensures that each venue is individual but still retains “the now recognisable Jamie 'twist'!”.
The seating in the striking Rotunda area was formed as 4 long runs of banquettes positioned around marbled floor-to-ceiling columns. MBDS specified a single row of float buttons to the backs of the seating in this area combining traditional with modern. The traditional look is further enhanced with the solid oak cappings and turned arms at either end of the banquettes......with another contemporary twist added by using a burgundy leather on two of the banquettes, and a vivid green on the other two. The finished effect on the ground floor is a symmetry that mixes traditional and modern in an amazing setting......a wonderful environment for a relaxed meal with friends.
Upstairs the challenge was stepped up a notch or three! Martin Brudnizki Design Studio wanted to create a real wow factor with an 8 and a half metre long Chesterfield style banquette in a bright pink leather. Craftwood Interiors manufactured a one metre long prototype for MBDS to view and approve to make sure that the detailing and comfort was just right.
A webbed base on the seat to ensure a good level of comfort was retained whilst still having the deep buttoned seat. In this case, the buttoned scroll arms to either end were made as an integral part of the “sofa” providing a seamless flow from arm to back. Due its first floor location, the banquette was made in sections which were then re-assembled on site. The solid timber turned legs added a final touch to the “free-standing” Chesterfield banquette.
Michael Reed, Managing Director of duBoulay Contracts Ltd, commented "It is always a pleasure to work with Craftwood for their professional approach and fine quality of the fitted furniture, delivered within our tight programme."
Craftwood Interiors are delighted to continue to provide Jamie’s Italian with custom made quality fixed seating for its restaurants. Other recently installed projects for Jamie’s include Covent Garden and Westfield in London, and Glasgow.
Related Links:
Jamie’s Italian www.jamieoliver.com/italian
Martin Brudnizki Design Studio www.mbds.net
duBoulay Contracts www.duboulay.co.uk