NAO OPENS ON AVENUE ROAD BOASTING A BESPOKE CHANDELIER BY VISO
A twist on your average steakhouse, this new Japanese hot spot opens on Avenue Road in Toronto. The vision was to create a modern experience from the traditional steakhouse. Combining modern elements with Asian influence, the space includes a multi-‐ tiered chandelier by VISO Inc. a local design and manufacturer of decorative unique lighting, which commands attention and adds glamour to the space. Owned by Charles Khabouth, Hanif Harji, Stuart Cameron and Tim Foley, NAO is located in the upscale district of Yorkville in Toronto. NAO’s dining experience focuses on the authenticity of its ingredients and sourcing the best cuts of meats worldwide. The décor was thoughtfully created to echo the dining experience. Italian-‐leather seating, African oak floors and painted mirrors grace the 120-‐seat dining room.
CEO and head designer of VISO Filipe Lisboa was interviewed about the making of the impressive showpiece chandelier. “This is one of the larger more intricate chandeliers we’ve ever created.” “It’s sheer volume, over 9’ wide and almost 9’ tall is impressive alone without even counting the 15 layers of clear acrylic cylinders pilled upwards like a complex wedding cake.” Many technical engineering hours went into the fixture. “We couldn’t have any visible fasteners so we created our own washers. We wanted to make sure design was 100%.” The chandelier fills enough visual space for all guests to enjoy from everywhere in the split-‐ level dining area. “It’s great. Many guests will have the chance to see the detailing on the chandelier.” Lisboa says. Each cylinder is gold rimed and the fixture looks like a flower from below. “The fixture had to be tested multiple times to ensure everything sat properly and there wouldn’t be any weight issues. It was a great challenge for our team and we learned a lot” Filipe explained.
