50 Plates – Portland, Oregon
Services Employed: Graphic Design, Interior Design, Renovation
CLIENT GOAL: A stylish spot in the heart of the Pearl that can transform itself on cue.
DESIGN RESPONSE: Located on the corner of the historic and industrial Block 90 building, 50 Plates showcases the cuisine of the American tradition. The building shell has a rough industrial edge that contrasts with the refined finishes inside including: gleaming white stone countertops, wenge wood paneling, stainless steel accents, chiseled limestone tile, and white snakeskin upholstery. The custom artwork that greets diners upon entering, a vintage piece that references the restaurant’s name and cuisine, is an unexpected departure from the space’s polished style. 50 Plates is open for morning coffee and pastries, lunch, and into the late night hours for cocktails and dinner. All booths, banquettes, and even a portion of the bar area were designed to be movable, so the entire space can be transformed to accommodate various size groups and events. Staff uniforms, plates and table settings were all designed to compliment the interior. The bar was designed with removable and flexible elements – so it appears as a bright welcoming coffee bar in the morning and undergoes a transformation throughout the day, becoming a low-lit stylish bar in the evening. Removable elements such as framed mocha-colored chalkboard panels displaying the morning coffee specials can be slipped off of hidden clips, revealing a full bar behind. Gleaming white stone table tops that were light and bright in the morning become dramatic glowing surfaces when hidden lights at the table edges are turned on at night. Even the desserts have been designed to compliment and coordinate with the dramatic glowing pastry case that is carved out of chiseled limestone.
WINNER: Honor Award, Restaurant Category 2008 Portland AIA/IIDA Awards
