The Conceptual Plan begins (we'll share the site plan as soon as negotiations are completed with design candidates). Beginning from the exterior of the building - these are the doors between the front entrance to The Benson and the front entrance of El Gaucho. We envision red carpet flowing from the street down the hallway to the elevators. Then the red carpet would turn left down the stairs to the lower level of the hotel. The red carpet (really a combination of burgundy, gold, greens, browns and red) would flow down the center of the restaurant. On the left as you enter the restaurant is a Chef's Table with open expediting area, so that guests can really see the fantastic culinary preparations as the come out of the kitchen and are plated before they are served. At the end of the red carpet (here it looks like a large golden sun) is a private dining room that is located inside the present wine cellar. The wine offerings will be maintained in a temperature controlled, and completely glassed in space. Then inside that space is a the private dining room with a stunning glass lighting fixture that resembles an Oregon waterfall above the table. This space is also entirely encased in glass making it a show-stopping centerpiece to the environment. On the right side of the restaurant is a lounge and bar which also includes a fresh oyster bar. Comfortable, sophisticated but never stuffy or aloof this is the concept for the new restaurant's layout and floor plan. Comments? Thoughts?
Colors, fabric treatments, lighting, furniture, and designs come next week -- thanks for tuning in!
