27 Oct 2023

ARIDO Award: Florette Restaurant + Bar

While interior designers traditionally aim for perfection in their projects, this design team chose to highlight the imperfect, comforting aspects of this new restaurant space on Toronto’s Queen Street West.

Category: EAT + STAY

Interior Designer: Dyonne Fashina, ARIDO
Design Firm: Denizens of Design Inc.
Photographer: Scott Norsworthy

Comforting and welcoming athmosphere of the ARIDO Award winner for EAT+STAY category, Florette Restaurant + Bar by Dyonne Fashina, ARIDO

Centering the design around “Aunt Fern” a fictional muse, they sought to create a space that felt like the home of a dear family member, and the treasures she’s collected over a lifetime.

Moving the bar back by five feet added more space to the dining area, and the raised platform in the front window, formerly a karaoke stage, and is now a large window booth, adding a sense of occasion for patrons in those seats.

A booth next to the window featuring a a floral pendant light that looks like it belongs in a home of a dear family member

Dyonne Fashina, ARIDO sought to create a space that felt like the home of a dear family member, and the treasures she’s collected over a lifetime.

Overhead, the barrel-vaulted ceiling is an eye catching jewel that draws in people from outside. It references historic architectural detail, establishing a strong presence and identity. With a friendly clatter of plates and cocktail making, the space fosters an energetic, unpretentious atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.