CADA designs three new Itsu restaurants

3rd July 2008, 4:07pm

CADA Design Group explained to Eat Out magazine how they went about redesigning their three latest Itsu restaurants in London’s High Holborn, New Fetter Lane and Lime Street.

What was your aim when designing these locations?

To evolve the existing Itsu corporate identity into a concept that exudes warmth whilst maintaining Itsu's core brand values of simplicity, boldness and confidence.

Founder director David Callcott explained: "Itsu are always looking for a fresh and progressive feel for the interiors of their shops and tasked us with the design creative which incorporates all aspects of design."

How did you achieve this?

We achieved this through a use of materials, furniture and fittings such as replacing the white walls with a natural birchwood finish and using ribbon slate flooring instead of composite ceramic tiles.

CADA has worked to ensure the interior palette incorporates the brand colours running harmoniously alongside the natural materials, wood finishes and slate flooring chosen for the evolved corporate identity. The materials being used are warm and carefully selected to blend with a fusion of oriental patterns which represent beauty, harmony and a contemporary Japanese sushi experience.

How many people can each venue sit?

Between 25-75 covers

How long did the project take from start to finish?

Between 7-8 weeks

What would you describe as the key and unique features?

The Itsu brand conveys health and happiness. We bring that manta alive through fresh and progressive interiors and playful but informative visual communications. The retail experience is dynamic and exciting as it harmoniously blends a sit down concept with a grab and go operation.

How and when was CADA set up?

CADA was established in 1993 by David Anderson and David Callcott.

Does your practice have a particular style?

We are renowned for developing creative concepts that meet market expectations. CADA's ability to create fresh thinking design solutions has made us one of the leading British experts in retail design and build.

Who are the key team members?

David Anderson, David Callcott and Daren Callcott.

What are your other recent projects?

Dean & DeLuca across the US including the New York Times Building and Fashion Island in California, Cornish Bakehouse rebranding project, Chop's Spitalfields and High Holborn interiors and retail graphics, The Restaurant Group at Gatwick South, Pret A Manger in Liverpool and London and McDonalds across the South-East of England.

Julian Metcalfe from Itsu, commented on the designer's work: "CADA design has been swift, professional, creative and a joy to work with."

Contact details:

Gavin Gooddy at design@cada.co.uk or dial 020 7234 9700.