A new interiors concept for institutional restaurant brand Browns
Client
Mitchels and Butler
Location
Various
We were asked by iconic bar and restaurant brand Browns to develop a new interiors concept to be rolled out across their 35 branches in the UK over the next five years.
A much-loved dining institution since 1973, Browns wanted to refresh its look to appeal to new audiences without losing its traditional clientele.
Mackenzie Wheeler have updated and reinterpreted Browns’ signature look of potted palms, tiled floors, mirrors and brass accents, adding new colour palettes, bespoke lighting and seating, to refresh perceptions and appeal to new audiences without losing its traditional clientele.
Set to be rolled out in 35 locations across the UK, the first projects in Bath, Edinburgh and Sheffield have now been completed and are already proving popular with customers.
At the grade 2 listed site at Edinburgh, formerly a bank, meticulously detailed designs celebrate the elegant architecture and lofty ceiling heights, drawing the eye up into the space with timber moulded wall panelling and a bespoke wallpaper ‘Colony Palm’ created by Glasgow-based Timorous Beasties. Browns’ signature black and white chequered floor is reconfigured into a new pattern, and jewelled colours and velvet seating are used to create a feeling of luxury and comfort. A combination of wall, floor and pendant lighting is used to create a warm and intimate ambience.
Often located in existing or listed civic buildings, many of the Browns venues offer an opportunity to bring much loved buildings back into public use, with newly restored features and site-specific elements. Browns in Bath was formerly a police station with the new WCs, featuring the original glazed tiles of the cells.
Browns 2020 celebrates the heritage of the brand retaining its hallmark elements and adding a contemporary twist to create a simple yet classic feel. Designs have created a warm and welcoming ambience with bespoke lighting and a luxurious feel. Footfall at Browns Edinburgh in the first August after its opening was up 150% on the previous year.
