Claro
Services | Restaurant Interior Design
Eastern Mediterranean restaurant group, Claro, has launched its first international venture in Central London’s St James’s. Occupying a 7,793sq ft Grade II Listed site, Claro bring’s a contemporary and sophisticated cuisine crafted by renowned Chef Patron, Ran Schmueli.
By juxtaposing modern finishes with traditional heritage architecture, DLSM Studio (formally DesignLSM) have delivered a sophisticated and intimate restaurant design, celebrating coming together to share a love for food, wine and friends, embracing the transparency and honesty of a curated menu.
Inspiration
The restaurant’s interior concept marries the elegance and exclusivity of St James' historic 'Clubland' reputation with a modern, progressive vision.
The venue is located in Waterloo Place, within a large double-height former banking hall with a rich history - it was once the Athenaeum Club which was frequented by notable figures such as Charles Darwin and Charles Dickens.
Details
The main kitchen takes centre stage being placed on the ground floor with interactive dining seats at the pass, accompanied by a dramatic double-height main area and select private rooms, and a more intimate first floor, perfect for entertaining larger groups.
The use of natural materials including timber, leather, and steel enhances the industrial aesthetic as a curated contrast to the historic listed features such as the intricate molding on the ceiling or the stately facade. Whilst existing elements of the original building have been preserved, such as the stunning wrought iron handrail, additional design features, including tremendous minimal pendent lights that hang proudly from the high ceilings, bring a sense of drama and modernity.
Outcome
Creating a socially engaging and dynamic dining destination, in collaboration with restaurant consultant Nick Gross (LanburyHundred), Claro’s design is centered around building a genuine connection with the passionate team and showcasing an authentic engagement with the food.
DLSM Studio’s innovative approach plays on the guest experience with the fully open kitchen allowing guests to be taken on a full culinary journey, bringing the once austere space to life through intimate interactions and tactile materials within a beautifully crafted environment.
