Old Chicago Remodel This project involved the comprehensive renovation and re-branding of a dated restaurant facility attached to a hotel and banquet hall. The new restaurant needed to meet strict franchise branding requirements as well as meticulous layout needs for operational flow, including the complexity of dealing with pre-existing building conditions and the desire to retain functional elements to save costs. Kitchen equipment coordination, food service flow, and franchise requirements were meticulously integrated into the design to ensure operational efficiency while navigating the complexities of an existing structure. The new franchise concept is a family-friendly neighborhood bar and grille specializing in Chicago-style cuisine paired with regional craft beer. The bar area intentionally takes on a livelier tone, connecting directly to a string-lit exterior patio via operable garage doors. This outdoor dining space is thoughtfully located on the leeward side of the building to shield guests from the strong prevailing winds. Exterior work included significant facade demolition and reconstruction, enhanced lighting, new signage, revised fenestration, and updated finishes. A new main entry strategically aligns with the adjacent street entry. While adhering to the franchise's strict branding and design guidelines, the exterior architecture was sensitively integrated with the vocabulary of the existing hotel.
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