The bright yellow upholstery and Formica inside this sandwich shop contrast the color palette of the 1970s montrealDesigned by local studio mrdk,
Also known as Architecture and Design Firm Maynard Dworkinddesigned Renzo Sandwich As a retro diner returns to the city’s Mile End neighborhood.
Measuring 1,275 square feet (118 square metres), the space is decorated in warm materials and features stainless steel details reminiscent of elements typically found in mid-century eateries.
“Renzo’s interior was conceived as more than just a backdrop, it is an integral part of the experience,” said MRDK. “From the moment you step inside, the space strikes a balance between warmth, functionality and restrained nostalgia.”
The eye is immediately drawn to the bright yellow two-seat booths that run back and forth along the left-hand wall.
The upholstery matches the Formica tabletops that extend from the wood-paneled walls between the booths, while pale orange covers the seats of retro-style stools located in front of the street-facing window.
by circular sconces generally together Line-up with tables, and linear overhead lights centered on a thin rail that defines the queuing area and can also be used as a casual dining space.
Mosaic tiles in shades of burgundy, beige and light blue cover the floor in offset rows, again a nod to the 1970s in both color and pattern.
The same light blue shade is applied to the tongue-and-groove boards that extend to the ceiling and wrap around the height change at the back.
The dropped ceiling highlights the bathroom in the public part and the kitchen area behind the stainless steel-topped service counter.
“At the center of the room, the open kitchen allows guests to see the choreography behind every order: the sandwiches are assembled with speed, care and precision,” MRDK said.
“It’s a subtle reminder that craft and transparency are part of the ethos here.”
Chilled products are stored in “grab and go” fridges and are described by bold red letters on the lightbox at the top of them.
These units are part of a larger, dark wood display case that was custom made and contains dry goods and Renzo merchandise.
Like the fridge, hand-painted branding is used on the interior walls as well as the store’s exterior for menus and signage.
“Renzo isn’t trying to be cute,” MRDK said. “It’s trying to feel like it’s always been there. A place that welcomes you back again and again, and with friends.”
MRDK used a similar bold yellow and chocolate brown palette for the interior of the Vietnamese restaurant le red tigerEven in Montreal.
The studio’s other recent projects include: Green upgrade of Calgary Airport lounge and this Building cedar-clad dwellings in the Quebec forest,
photography is by Matthew Levesque,
Project Credit:
Architect: mrdk
Team: Guillaume Ménard, Fabrice Dautriaux
Contractor: construction mevia
