Arthur's Restaurant at Liberty of London
Furniture, Hospitality / London / November 2017
Nick Leith-Smith has again paired up with hospitality strategists, Forward Associates, to open a new dining destination within the heart of Liberty of London.
Arthurs’ is a 100-cover restaurant which has replaced an existing café situated on the second floor of Liberty of London, one of London’s most iconic retail institutions. It is named after the store’s founder, Arthur Lazenby Liberty.
For the 170 square metre restaurant, architect Nick Leith-Smith took inspiration from the store’s artistic beginnings during the Arts and Crafts movement, as characterised by William Morris and Philip Webb.
Inside the restaurant circular Italian marble-topped tables and Thonet coffee house chairs give a classic nod to the era, while a striped geometric wall design in vintage pinks, adds drama to the space. Warm metal hues with brass and copper details are used to harmonise with the dark timber and velvet upholstery in midnight blue, teal green and dusty pink.
The centerpiece of the room is a standout marble-topped bar with brass detailing. Deliberately oversized, the bar wraps around the restaurant, providing a focal point from the seated areas and bringing the preparation of food and drink centre stage.
The design is a celebration of craftsmanship throughout and an evocative way to experience the Liberty brand.