June 12, 2020

Duke of York Restaurant Shortlisted for RIBA South London Awards 2020

Written by Carly Coren

Descending Windows Bag Chelsea Restaurant a place on the RIBA shortlist

The Duke of York Restaurant, featuring the sophisticated Descending Window system, has been shortlisted in the RIBA South London Awards 2020.

The stunning circular building, adjacent to the Saatchi Gallery, has a unique design fit for purpose. The restaurant is part of the Duke of York Square redevelopment, enhancing the already sought-after location of King’s Road, Chelsea.

From the outside the restaurant is in keeping with the nearby gallery, using off white precast concrete for a cohesive design. Upon arrival, it is noticed the structure of the restaurant uses glass as a primary construction material. From a distance, the frameless glass is almost invisible to the naked eye.

A large proportion of the build is created using curved glass; being able to see both in and out forges a strong connection between the interior and its external environment/surroundings. The magnificent thing about this restaurant, unlike any other, is the ability for the glass walls to completely disappear.

The descending window system sinks into the floor effortlessly, creating an al fresco dining experience during the summer months. With silent, fully automated motors the glass can be moved throughout the business day without causing any disruption to customers.

These swiss systems can be stopped at any point whilst descending, making them suitable for use as a barrier or side table, at any height if desired.

When fully descended there is no trace of the glazed structure, leaving only the precast concrete and rooftop greenery in sight. The flush to floor level finish works to bridge the gap between indoors and outdoors, allowing the restaurant to open up with more seating space in its surrounding areas.