Project Name: Sidechick

Location: London

Date Completed: May 2021

Interior Designer: Lisa Helmanis

Construction Company: Mark Rhodes

Day Studio London wanted to create a homely, soothing environment, informal but still special. To create a space that captures the inclusive, warm and friendly spirit of the Sidechick offering allowing both the food and customers to shine. As ever with the Day Studio approach the final element of this design is the team and customers that light up that space when in it. A “sense of place and conviviality is the goal”. A place that invokes a feeling of familiarity and shared references, that becomes a frequently visited favourite and becomes and a must see for those who love food.

Sidechick James Street evokes a feeling of familiarity and shared references, a nod to the warmth of the kitchen table of a well loved old friend. Where there is always an extra plate and a chair summoned up no matter how every many turn up. The overarching theme is a warm, informal sense of occasion. Polished walnut wall panelling nestles up against soft cream gloss ceiling with mid century chairs and formica tables in a faded orange, a subtle contemporary take on those relatives homes built for comfort, the backdrop of many happy memories. Harmonious without being overly matching, it creates a comforting backdrop to the zinging, vivid hues of the super fresh dishes that cover the tables.

Staying within this tonal frame yellow and terracotta checkerboard floor tiling and brushed stainless steel surfaces provide a sensory layering, uniting the separate zones within the space (kitchen, service, bar) and adding to the sense of flow. A mix of the everyday and special. Downstairs the mood gets seriously playful, Rattan, hessian and a heavy velvet curtain reveal extra deep orange cord seating that invites diners to settle in for the duration. Key to the success of the scheme is a subtle lighting plan that freshens overcast lunches and sets the mood for late night lounging. Part living room, part family kitchen table, part clubhouse Sidechick is a place that draws on treasured collective memories and encourages diners to create new ones.

St James Street in London is one of the most popular dining streets in London. Day Studio carefully considered the offerings around and ensured they offered a different type of dining experience, with a clear and appealing design. It is easily recognisable as the ‘Sidechick’ vernacular which the client plans to roll out in subsequent venues.