Upper Deck designed to coincide with London Transport System

28th February 2008, 3:32pm

Lumsden Design Partnership, the designers behind the newly opened Upper Deck venture in Covent Garden, explained how they have developed the restaurant to coincide with the full re-launch of London Transport Museum.

As part of the £22 million transformation of the museum, The Upper Deck – a 40 seated eatery operated by Searcy catering company – has been described as minimalist but comfortable, using fabric produced in the early 70s for London Transport used on the Circle and District and on buses.

What were your aims when designing Upper Deck?

We wanted to create a uniquely London venue making very subtle reference to our iconic transport system; clean design, stylish and modern.

How did you achieve this?

The main transport reference is the moquette fabric seating which uses a familiar 70s design recoloured with a lovely modern palette. Transport in London is synonymous with style and iconic design. It was therefore important to be true to this heritage in our choices for the café's interior. For example, we selected well known design icons including Eames chairs.

How long did the design process take?

We developed the café over two years, including sourcing our catering partner Searcy, developing the interior design, and the kitchen and operational spaces.

What would you describe as the key and unique features of the restaurant?

Moquette seating, transport themed cocktails and smoothies, great evening destination – sitting in a light box overlooking Covent Garden Piazza. It's a bar for Londoners. Great relaxed food.

What are your recent projects?

The Garden Café, Regent's Park

London's Science Museum

The Roman Baths

Wine Rack

Tequila, London

Typical breakfast and brunch dishes on the menu include Eggs Florentine, Omelettes, Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Traditional English, followed by lunch items such as Smoked Salmon Platter, Pan-Fried Marinated Scallops, and Classic Caesar Salad. Prices on the lunch menu range from £4-£10.50.

A short snack menu is also available throughout the evening, including Mini Smoked Salmon and Haddock Fishcakes, Moroccan-style Lamb Kofte Skewers, and Homemade Lamb Burger – starting from £5 each.

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