Beyond by Shemtov's is a renovation of a Miami Beach staple restaurant that has been around for decades. They wanted to expand their restaurant by taking over the empty tenant space next door. They wanted to transform their fast food experience into a luxury sit down atmosphere. A custom privacy wall and seating that is 50' long was created to provide that unique experience. They wanted an open ceiling but at the same time to hide all of the structure. Designed were large angular accent soffits to provide light and from a far hide the industrial ceiling, adjustable down lights were provided in between the soffits to focus your attention to the dining experience.
Multiple spaces were design to maximize the experiences available for the owner and for the customer. The seating area has the ability to be closed off with movable smaller wall screens/booths to accommodate any sized private function. There is a to-go with an ice cream area to provide constant flow of customers even if there is a large private function that closes the dining area. Late at night there is a bar area with a lounge feel in the front to provide that after dinner experience.
Construction to be completed by end of 2012.
K’hal Ahavas Torah is a small orthodox congregation in Miami Beach, Florida. They recently outgrew their old Synagogue of 900 square feet. They decided for the next couple of years to rent and found an 1,750 square foot space in a 3rd story of an office building. The program was to include a main worship room for men and women, kids room, and a kitchen. A few challenges arose:
CHALLENGE: Being on the 3rd floor of an office building the space had a lot of North windows and focus was being lost out of them. SOLUTION: Designed an East Accent Wall to focus worshipers attention East while provide an opportunity for art
CHALLENGE: The main worship room had to be used for various events. The typical design of a stationary Mechitzah would limit this. SOLUTION: A custom designed Mechitzah on wheels that can be moved depending on the function. A one way mirrored glass to allow women to feel like they are part of an open room.
CHALLENGE: A kids room can be messy and loud. SOLUTION: Put in carpet tiles to help dampen the sound while allowing a greater ease to clean. If one carpet tile gets damaged all they have to do is replace that one tile instead of a traditional carpet where you would have to cut out the piece or replace the entire carpeting.
CHALLENGE: Old kitchen had a lack of storage, they buy items in bulk. SOLUTION: Provided stainless steel counter tops and open shelving. This way they can stack boxes easily while at the same time prepare for large catered events and allow easy cleanup.
Photos by Paul Stoppi