Carne X 2 = double the delight!
New Carne on Kloof, designed by Inhouse Brand Architects, extends the original Carne on Keerom to a wider audience.
Carne on Keerom Street is a favourite amongst discerning Capetonian diners. So much so, that its ongoing popularity meant that celebrity chef Giorgio Nava was constantly turning away prospective customers from an already full restaurant. Because of this, Nava approached Inhouse Brand Architects, the design team behind all of his projects, to design a second branch of Carne – the now equally bustling Carne on Kloof.
Aidan Hart, the Creative Director of Inhouse, focused on mirroring the quiet design elements of the original Carne on Keerom Street, while preserving the existing architectural features of the new Victorian locale, to create a proud extension of Nava’s authentic Italian gastronomic philosophy. For the original and first Carne, Inhouse focused on creating a warm and simple reincarnation of Milanese élan. For Carne on Kloof, Inhouse kept to this same ‘blueprint’ by using natural design elements. Raw Orgeon pine clads the walls of this inviting space and exposed brick-walls act as a textured signifier. Intimate lighting – again a feature of Carne on Keerom Street – reinforces the romantic spirit of this environment. Additional notes of warmth are woven through the space by preserving the original Victorian fireplace, timber floors and high ceilings.
These authentic touches are complimented with quality finishes. A marble and steel bar monopolises the back section of the restaurant. High-back barstools, cushioned in animal hide, flank the expansive bar area, and are in keeping with the earthy materials that abound. Moody, mottled-grey accent walls give the space texture and depth. The passionate flair of Italian culture is injected through a burst of deep red on a shelving unit that feature Nava’s personal collection of antique copper vessels and an impressive wine collection.
Inhouse determined that an understated design intervention was the ultimate paean to Nava’s personal style and his successful brand of genuine Italian dining. The result of Hart’s strong design partnership with Nava is the creation of elegant, unpretentious space that will leave clients wanting more of Carne’s absolute celebration of European quality and essence!
For more information see www.inhouse.ws
