Jul 2011 - Issue 5 - National Federation of Fish Friers

Shop Watch: CHAMBERLAIN’S RESTAURANT AND TAKE-AWAY
Proprietor Simon Shaw comments, “We wanted to offer something different as
there wasn’t a dedicated fish and chip shop restaurant in the area. Our aim was
to provide a quality dining experience with great food and excellent service.”
The previous use of the site was a Chinese buffet restaurant and as such the
architectural characteristics of the structure are distinctly inspired by oriental
building design. It is the very nature of the exterior appearance that enables
Chamberlain’s to stand out amongst the surrounding architecture, although the
external fabric of the building has not been altered, the introduction of new
signage and branding add an element of change to the main facade. In contrast
to the minor works to the exterior, the interior of the building has undergone a
series of major alterations, all of which were planned out at an early stage so that
the space could accommodate the required provisions of a take-away restaurant,
combined with ergonomic and efficient kitchen areas. A selection of high quality
materials, finishes and bespoke features have been utilised throughout the space,
all of which contribute to the strong visual identity of Chamberlain’s and give the
space definite character and appeal. Simon also comments “Elite have definitely
helped us achieve our vision for the restaurant. From the start we received a
very professional service and the result is fantastic. They demonstrated a real
desire to match our aspirations and I am so pleased with the restaurant and takeaway,
we want people to feel comfortable and enjoy the very best food and
service which is all part of the Chamberlain’s experience.”
In contrast to the warm and rich nature of the restaurant the take-away area is a
clinical and minimal space with a subtle expression of modern material finishes
and features, including; brushed stainless steel counter, white gloss wall tiles,
iridescent micro mosaic tiles and black slate effect floor tiles. In contrast to
the historic image used in the restaurant a large image of the futuristic
Bullring shopping centre
(Birmingham) has been
used, this addition captures
the essence of the
materials used throughout
the take-away, whilst
adding a sense of modern
context to the space.
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Chamberlain’s offer
something different
Chamberlain’s restaurant and take-away is
a new and uniquely recognisable fish and
chip shop restaurant to appear in the heart
of Oldbury, a residential suburb west of
Birmingham city centre.
In contrast to the restaurant
& take-away areas the
kitchen & prep areas are an
understated addition within
the entirety of the space.
Although these areas are
limited in terms of space
careful planning has
allowed an ergonomic
working environment which
operates efficiently for food
preparation & service to the
restaurant & take-away.
The extent of the refurbishment works included;
Issue 5 July 2011
Major works were carried out throughout the interior areas, all
existing walls, ceilings, fitted furniture, flooring and electrics were
removed, and this allowed the space to be divided into three main
areas; kitchen and prep, take-away and restaurant with a capacity
of 80 covers. New internal walls were constructed and new multilevel
ceilings formed which gave the basic shell for the interior
elements to be incorporated.
The restaurant and take-away needed a strong visual identity, a
statement of quality & tradition were key elements of the design
concept, combing a sense of historic & modern context within the
space. It was felt that a contrast was needed in aesthetics & material
selection which would enable the two areas to have individual
characteristics within the main body of the interior.
The restaurant is a rich and vibrant space with a selection of high
quality materials and finishes used throughout, including; American
Black Walnut timber flooring, tables, screens and fitted waiter
stations, axminster carpet, luxurious wallpaper and soft leather
fixed seating. The warm and subtle palette of material finishes is
accentuated by sharp blasts of red evident in the carpet and on
the walls, a sense of context is also achieved with a large historic
image of Chamberlain Square (Birmingham) fitted to the wall at the
front of the restaurant. A series of modular down lights and fabric
pendant lighting accentuate the height of the space whilst defining
individual areas.