Streetsense designs Bandolero restaurant in Washington
Maryland-based architecture and design practice Streetsense has designed the interiors of a new restaurant, Bandolero, which has opened in the heart of Georgetown in Washington, DC.
The design brief by chef Isabella required Streetsense to recall Mexico’s macabre “Day of the Dead” celebration feel in a modern Mexican small-plates concept.
The restaurant is built from a minimalist shell that features dark elements, such as painted black woods and reclaimed metal, all of which are accented with warmer and brighter splashes of colour. A major focal point of the space is the bar backdrop featuring yellow tile illuminated by LED lights. The LED lighting scheme is offset throughout the restaurant by dimly lit gothic-style chandeliers and wall sconces.
To enhance the restaurant’s laid-back atmosphere, the Streetsense team specified rustic touches including ornate hand-crafted wooden tables, stacked wooden tequila crates at barside, reclaimed wood floors, and exposed brick walls with original building artwork. The front of the bar is clad with copper that was uncovered during renovations, after being buried beneath layers of millwork.
Bandolero’s first floor seats more than 100 with 18 at the bar, 20 at barside tables, and ten at a cozy chef’s table adjacent to the open kitchen. The second floor seats 68 and features a large communal table overlooking the bustling activity of M Street.
