Portland

Our design for the refurbishment of Michelin-starred restaurant Portland, for our regular client The Woodhead Group, focuses on elevating the customer experience while retaining the essence of the original design. With a deep emphasis on craftsmanship and materiality, we collaborated closely with a master joiner to create a space that feels both refined and inviting.

A key part of the redesign was the bespoke kitchen pass, dispense bar, and waiter station, all meticulously crafted to enhance functionality and efficiency while showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. Building upon the existing materials palette, we introduced tactile finishes that enrich the overall ambiance, including handmade tiles, two tones of oak, and soft upholstery details, such as a café curtain that subtly frames the space.

To improve comfort within the restaurant, we incorporated a large velvet curtain near the entrance, providing a sense of shelter and warmth for diners. In the kitchen, green tiles were introduced to add a gentle hint of colour, creating a fresh yet understated contrast to the existing palette.

As part of the refurbishment, all furniture and lighting within the restaurant were replaced, ensuring a cohesive and elevated aesthetic. The new furniture selection enhances both comfort and style, while the lighting design contributes to a warm and inviting dining atmosphere.

The private dining room underwent a significant transformation, further elevating its luxurious appeal. We introduced a new modular dining table, allowing for adaptable configurations to suit different group sizes. Handcrafted light fittings, rich marble surfaces, elegant lamps, and carefully selected rugs contribute to a more intimate and premium atmosphere, ensuring that the space feels both special and immersive.

Through our thoughtful approach to materiality, craftsmanship, and spatial refinement, Portland’s refurbishment enhances the dining experience while honouring the restaurant’s original character.