Kua ‘Aina, The Legendary Burger and Sandwich Grill, approached DesignLSM to act as brand guardians and evolve the brand and interior for the new restaurant in Goodge Street, Fitzrovia. Our brief was to ‘buck the trend of minimalist, industrial interiors, to utilise recycled materials where possible and create a visual connection between the restaurant and open kitchen’. Our interior designers drew upon the Hawaiian heritage, ensuring that the vibrant, friendly brand was accentuated through the interiors. Our graphic designers created large illustrations of bold hibiscus flowers that were printed onto vinyl and placed upon the wall.

Adjacent to this is a wall covered in 1960’s style surfing posters – also produced by our graphic designers – using specifically styled typography. The neon artwork and hand–painted corrugated iron signs add to the colourful bold ambience bringing the hospitable spirit of Hawaii alive. Our interior designers recreated a surf shack vibe by utilising up-cycled furniture painted in energetic colours, thatching the sky light with bamboo screening and furnishing it with flower garlands. The light fittings were created with surf board leashes and colourful fabrics. Stripped back wood panelling and sanded floor boards accentuated the theme.

The restaurant is situated on a busy street, it was therefore important to create a visually arresting facade which would entice customers in. A surfboard was used for the external signage along with brilliant yellow canopies and breeze screens to bring a hint of tropical sunshine to the London streets.

Design: designLSM
Images copy right: James French