bar seating, tables and small ban-
quettes keep the energy alive in the bar
area, while the other half of the space
offers a traditional dining experience,
including views into the kitchen through
Tetris-like geometric cut-outs in the
wall. "The highlight of the dining room
is a beautiful, twisting ribbon of brass
leaves creating a sculptural chandelier
down the length of the room toward
the private wine room beyond," says
Johnson, noting that the piece — with
well in excess of 1,000 brass leaves
— had to be brought in in pieces and
assembled on-site, just like the tiered
liquor shelf.
Large pendant lamps with sound-
absorbing fabric, foor lamps and
spotlight bulbs showcasing the food help
create a "variety of light" and warmth
throughout the space, according to Mar-
tens. A fabric-covered ceiling and drap-
eries further help with the acoustics.
"Because we have two bars and an
open atrium, sound carries. We consulted
with acoustical engineers to make sure we
had enough sound-absorbing elements so
it's not so painfully loud," says Martens.
"We wanted the space to be energetic but
not uncomfortable for guests."
J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 5 • R E S T A U R A N T D E V E L O P M E N T + D E S I G N • 5 3
The undulating brass leaf light fxture
makes for an eye-catching design
element at Del Frisco's Double Eagle
Steak House in Washington, D.C.