NAHA Design Summary The challenges in replacing a Chicago landmark restaurant of 24 years were numerous. Should a new establishment pay homage to its predecessor? How will the city's dining patrons confront the loss, and accept the newcomer? Simply refresh and enliven, or aggressively take over the entire space? With all due respect to the restaurant known as Gordon, the decision was made to completely gut everything from the storefront windows to the ovens. While occupying a terrifically urban River North corner, the space, previously introspective, needed to respect and engage such a location. The entry was moved up block, opening the corner and the entire dining room to the city, and thus the city to the patrons. Terrific views of Chicago landmark buildings once blocked are now dominating. The energy of a city alive at night would vibrantly resonate within NAHA. Enter into a Lounge relaxed with a bench of soft fabrics and leather ottomans. Above, a sinuous soffit leads one through the restaurant where clean lines dominate: a walnut host table sits in front of a blue silk and brown velvet drape, a curving bar of concrete and leather, raised tables create a transition into the dining room where back-to-back banquettes separated by a built-in planter sprouting tall grasses create areas within, while large expanses of glass enliven and visually extend the space into the surrounding city. Softly-colored walls recess into niches as expressive works by local artist Lora Fosberg become a part of the restaurant, not simply objects hanging. Natural materials of Mediterranean colors give the room the warmth and quality that enhance the entire dining experience. Tom Nahabedian of collaboration designed the space, from exterior awnings to menus and matchbooks, to all drapery and furniture, including chairs, tables, and creative rolling wine caddies. The details extend beyond architectural, however, as typically mundane operations such as the method of check presentation becomes an expressive design statement. The experience is not about concept at all. Innovatively, it is simplicity in completeness; excellent food served thoughtfully in a warm environment. nahabedian . culligan collaboration chicago 773 457 0078 los angeles 310.951.0502 jane@nccollaboration.com tom@nccollaboration.com