The newest OEB Breakfast Co. at The Amazing Brentwood was developed to create a “stepping into a farm” feeling while also considering the demographic of its Burnaby, BC area.
Designed by Janks Design Group, a main feature in the space is the metal structure over the bar – designed to mimic a barn. The colourful shelving and wooden pantries throughout the restaurant not only embrace the brand colours of OEB, but they also provide the establishment with extra storage to display their dry goods and decor.
The design incorporates multiple elements that are meant to subtly suggest a farmhouse atmosphere, without making it feel like a literal barn. A cluster of sphere pendants and large dome lights mimic eggs, wire mesh on the pantries is reminiscent of a chicken coop, and white wall paneling adds a rustic element with a modern flare.
To further support the personality of the OEB brand, a line drawing of their lively cockerel was stamped onto the wall paneling in the dining room, and several planters were incorporated to reinforce the feeling of “fresh”. The dramatically high ceilings were painted black to ground the space and create a cozier atmosphere.
Although the design results are exceptional, there were a few obstacles along the way that creatively challenged the design team. The long and narrow shape of the space proved to be difficult when space planning and creating maximum seating opportunities. In addition, the oversized structural columns were located quite centrally in the space, therefore creating additional challenges.
The combination of these two restricting elements made it difficult to maintain the required clearances and pathways as per the local building code, but alas, a successful layout was achieved.
A major design element of OEB restaurants is to provide the guests with a view into the kitchen. OEB embraces their creative process and visually welcomes guests into the heart of their restaurant. The prosperity of the food requires a specific layout of equipment to ensure efficient workflow. With the narrow space available, this was another challenge.
Fortunately, by embracing these obstacles, the design was able to flourish – using the narrow space to establish various dining niches, and the columns to create spatial separation. The variety of seating options range from bartop seats to community tables that embrace the family-meal feel.
