• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Interior Designer: Day Studio (Lisa Helmanis)

Construction: Carter New Love

Associated: Stileman Lighting

Photography: Helen Cathcart

Day Studio has unveiled Burro, a new restaurant in Covent Garden that reinterprets Irish and Italian hospitality traditions through a warm and contemporary design language. Conceived for chef owner Conor Gadd, Day Studio approached the project with the ambition of creating a restaurant rooted in generosity, craft and cultural continuity rather than fleeting trends.

Day Studio developed the concept around the idea of designing a space that feels of its time while shaped by the memory of others. In a location often associated with visual spectacle and rapid change, Day Studio sought to establish Burro as a true local destination, a place intended to evolve and deepen in character over many years.

Drawing on the shared traditions of Ireland and Italy, Day Studio translated these influences into atmosphere and materiality rather than literal references. The resulting interior sits between the familiarity of an Irish country kitchen and the relaxed charm of a Roman trattoria, expressed through balanced proportions and a welcoming, informal tone.

Spatial planning played a central role in the design. Day Studio carefully configured the layout to support a variety of dining experiences, from solo guests seated at the bar to larger group gatherings, while maintaining intimacy and cohesion. Sightlines and circulation were meticulously considered to ensure the space feels lively yet composed.

Material selection reinforces the project’s focus on longevity. Day Studio introduced a restrained palette of red based browns and faded yellows, with finishes chosen to age gracefully and develop patina over time. Every element, from joinery to lighting, was designed to contribute to a cohesive narrative.

Through clarity, restraint and attention to detail, Day Studio has created a restaurant that aligns seamlessly with its culinary ethos, offering a space that feels generous, grounded and enduring.