Designing Women (& Men)

I met with the architect again today. I’m really happy. I like the design and think we’re getting there. It is exciting! It looks like everything will flow well. Next, to ensure that traffic flow will be efficient, the architects will make the blueprint into a 3-d model. That will also help us determine if a few tables need curtains or other types of barriers for privacy.

Chris, Kevin and a potential restaurant manager were all at the meeting with me. We all left smiling. Then, I emailed the blueprint to a friend who has lots of restaurant experience, tons of common sense and strong opinions. Naturally, he had some questions about the layout. So there’s another discussion…

 

 

One thing I am really excited about is the flexibility of the space. We have one area that can be a large private dining room (PDR) for 40 or 50 people or divided into two smaller rooms. I envision hosting bridal and baby showers, birthday parties and family events. We’re even planning to have Wi-Fi so the rooms can be used for corporate presentations and meetings. On days the room isn’t being used, it can be opened up and used as part of the restaurant – increasing the seating capacity.  

There was still one awkward space that was small and dark. I thought it was crying out to be a wine cellar. But, as the design evolved, the space opened up and it is now going to be a living room. Picture a relaxing, room with a fireplace, small bar and maybe a TV – almost like home only someone else brings your snacks so you don’t have to run into the kitchen during the commercials, refills your drink and even cleans up after you. What could be better? It will also be an unusual and inviting space for greeting guests before private parties. It’s just a warm and welcoming place to hang out in. I’m sure we’ll find a million ways to use it. I may just move in!

 

The other space we spent a lot of time talking about was the lobby. Sometimes people don’t want to be seated until their whole party arrives. That usually means waiting in a bar – but I know that I don’t always feel comfortable waiting in a bar. The lobby is designed to feel like an extension of the bar, where guests can relax, have a drink and visit with friends as they’re coming and going without actually being in the bar. And, if there is a short wait for a table, it would be a comfortable place to be.

 

 

Well, everyone loved the wine pairings we offered at Alison at Blue Bell on New Year’s Eve. We got to try new wines and unexpected food/wine pairings. It was fun! So, for Valentine’s Day we’re offering a flight of three glasses of wine matched to the menu. Having a liquor license adds a whole new dimension. So glad we’ll have a full bar at the new place! But, that’s a post for another day…