Working with a local restaurateur, Brandon served as the lead designer working directly under the principal for the interior buildout, and exterior renovation, of the second location for the local staple Katalina’s Cafe.
Serving diner classics with an upscale twist, the design challenge was how to bring the quirky character from the original under 500 SqFt location into a larger space. Upon entering there is an industrial metal soffit element which serves to frame the kitchen. This also serves as the backbone to organize ordering, water, and branded merchandise including sauces (a staple of the first location).
The primary dining areas of the restaurant retain the warm wood, painted brick of the existing building. The interior concept was meant to link back to the original location, which featured a density of texture and patina within the space.
Serving as the primary designer from Feasibility Study through CA, we helped the owners of Katalina’s conduct test fits prior to leasing the building. Upon deciding on the location, Bass Studio Architect served as the primary interior designer and architect for the space, including detailing casework, furniture, materiality, and exterior seating.
The original location for Katalina’s is within a small sub 500 SqFt historic service station building. The interior of the space had a unique patina of handwritten messages on chalkboard painted walls and surfaces. The design challenge of the new Katalina’s Too became how to emulate this depth of character in a new space.
