Project Type : Commercial

Location : New York, NY

Status : Completed

Located at the intersection of Union Square and 7th Avenue, the project was realized through close collaboration between a Seoul-based client expanding into the New York F&B market and a multidisciplinary team. In order to translate the client’s vision into a built environment, the project scope encompassed both Owner’s Project Management (OPM) and design leadership, facilitating coordination between the New York–based contractor and the client in Seoul. A comprehensive design service was delivered, ranging from site selection through project completion, with 3D scanning and BIM modeling tools employed to minimize potential scope gaps associated with remote collaboration.

Efficiency in both design development and construction scheduling was a critical requirement for the project. This was addressed through the specification of materials with minimal lead times, early-stage budget analysis, and proactive identification and management of potential construction risks, supported by a range of targeted problem-solving strategies.

To improve operational continuity, the previously inefficient layout was reorganized to establish a clear spatial sequence between ordering and food preparation areas. Connectivity among the back-of-house, new kitchen, and basement storage was maximized, while non-essential elements were strategically separated from primary customer circulation paths to enhance the overall user experience. In response to the constraints of low ceiling heights and a long, narrow corridor-like condition, the space was redefined through the use of grounded floor materials, light-toned wall and ceiling finishes, and spatial definition via custom benches and knee walls.

The existing brick texture was preserved to maintain a sense of continuity with the original space. This was complemented by the introduction of textured cork wall coverings, accent red tones, and plywood elements, contributing warmth and familiarity to the interior environment. The custom countertop, finished with convex-profile tile and stainless steel, was designed to support efficient, high-speed food preparation through a compact equipment layout.