The Continental

The Continental

David Collins Studios as Designers

DAVID COLLINS STUDIO UNVEILS THE CONTINENTAL


Restaurant’s Interior Conveys the Sophisticated Spirit of European Cafés


David Collins Studio, the renowned London-based interior architecture and design studio, has revealed the inspired space of The Continental at Pacific Place. Formerly Domani, The Continental evokes the refined elegance and sophisticated charm of Europe’s grand cafés.


The freestanding building designed by Heatherwick Studio is a unique example of modern architecture. When opened in 2008, the building’s imposing design and sculptural ceiling attracted worldwide attention from the design community. In re-imagining the restaurant’s interior, David Collins Studio honours the building’s innovation and modernity, yet introduces elements that both complement and contrast the original design.


“With The Continental, we wanted to respect the architecture, but also add elements that contrast with the form,” explains creative director Simon Rawlings. “Considering the building’s undulating curves, we introduced a sense of uniformity in the layout. Elsewhere, we’ve created a ribbon-like mural to compliment and mirror the building’s iconic shape.”


David Collins Studio was invited to reconsider the space and its relationship with the original architecture. The brief was to revise the layout, expanding the restaurant area to accommodate up to 120 guests and creating a dramatic bar at the entrance. From the point of arrival, The Continental captures a sense of warmth and European sophistication. As guests enter, the bar area features a reception space, intimate table groupings and a marble-top bar. Taking advantage of the building’s curves, a wraparound leather banquette hugs the corner, highlighting the expansive windows yet providing an intimate retreat for couples and small groups.


Moving into the dining area, the curved seating design continues, framing each end of the restaurant while private booths line either side. The design allows for an uninterrupted flow of space, ensuring the various functions of the restaurant can seamlessly operate. The open Patisserie adds a sense of theatre, inviting diners to witness the dessert-making process in action. Complimenting the nearby parkland, the emerald-coloured leather upholstery and hand glazed Italian ceramic brings the surrounding greenery into the bar and restaurant. The effect creates a light-filled oasis by day and, along with David Collins Studio’s distinguished lighting design expertise, a sumptuously relaxed space by night.


Throughout The Continental, white marble contrasts against vibrant glazed ceramics, textured oak panels, bronze detailing and the signature green accents add warmth to the scheme. Employing the personalised sense of style David Collins Studio is renowned for, The Continental features custom-designed pieces, including the leather-upholstered furniture and seeded glass pendant lights. A contemporary and playful spirit carries through the design, reflected in the styling, choice of accessories, colour and textures.


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