How to create a residential feel in a commercial space

When commissioning the M Restaurant Victoria the owner Martin Williams was looking for a fresh approach, with a designer who could blur the lines between residential and commercial work. This is a common request from clients who want to capture a homey feeling to draw people in and lengthen their stay. The holy grail is to re-create that unique comfortable and relaxed atmosphere in their establishment, making a home from home. One of the main reasons René Dekker Design was chosen for this project is because the practice is perhaps best known for its residential work. Headed by award winning interior design expert, René Dekker, who has a unique brand of opulence and glamour, expertly weaving together textiles, warm surface materials and decorative lighting.

 

This part leisure, part retail, 9000 square foot project, has several distinct offerings and is apportioned over two floors. On the lower ground floor there is a theatrical oval-shaped, triple-tiered dining room. This sophisticated and alluring space is decorated with sumptuous grey velvet banquette seating, draping teal green curtains and polished dark wooden surfaces. Standing Pendants by Rothschild & Bickers in polished copper and grey glass are staggered throughout the room and accent beautifully with the feature warm earth tone copper ceiling.

René is very aware of the importance of lighting, setting a mood in a way nothing else can. Large Pick-n-Mix pendants in copper blue glass hang over the incredible destination cocktail bar, definitely a place to while away the small hours, making it very hard to go home!

All photography by Adam Letch