A SPACE FOR MANY MODES OF LIVING ’23

A multi-purpose hospitality concept developed with architect Seyiram Torkornoo of Design Three Seven, conceived to move fluidly between restaurant, workspace, lounge and nightlife.

The brief was to imagine a place that could accommodate different rhythms throughout the day without losing a sense of identity.

We approached the space as a sequence of experiences.

Arrival begins with privacy and intrigue: a landscaped perimeter of breeze blocks creates enclosure while allowing air and light to pass through. A covered tunnel leads guests towards the entrance, punctuated by bronze statuettes that introduce a more creative, considered character before they even enter.

Inside, the programme unfolds naturally.

A reception area establishes the hospitality experience, while a glass-fronted co-working space creates a visual connection to the activity within—designed to transition from productive workspace by day to an intimate jazz club by night.

 

Beyond it, the main restaurant opens into an outdoor dining environment, extending the hospitality experience into the landscape. Timber furniture, botanical-inspired upholstery and restrained off-white walls create a calm foundation, while the outdoor bar introduces a stronger cultural expression through woven-wire furniture, African-inspired detailing and clay-inspired lighting.

Further into the garden, a BBQ station sits beside a sunken seating area, creating a more informal social setting.

Inside, the experience becomes more intimate: a central bar anchors the lounge, with the open kitchen allowing glimpses into the preparation behind the dining experience. Private cigar and wine rooms offer more secluded ways to gather, while the supporting spaces—bathrooms, offices and service areas—are integrated into the overall flow rather than treated as afterthoughts.

The project ultimately remained at concept stage.

But the exercise demonstrated something we value deeply at ALOD: a successful hospitality space isn’t defined by how many functions it accommodates, but by how naturally those functions coexist.