CHALLENGE

The Vittoria Group, a leader in Edinburgh’s hospitality scene, sought to transform a newly acquired venue into a vibrant destination celebrating the quintessential British fish and chip experience. The challenge lay in creating a visually striking yet functional interior that evoked seaside nostalgia while fitting seamlessly into Edinburgh’s bustling city centre. The space needed to balance charm, practicality, and refinement to cater to a diverse audience.

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VISION

The goal was to create a welcoming, playful space that transported diners to the seaside, while reflecting the energy and sophistication of its urban surroundings. The design had to celebrate the joy of traditional fish and chips with a contemporary twist, offering a fresh perspective on a cherished British pastime.

 

APPROACH

1. Space Planning and Layout

Efficient space planning was central to the transformation. The layout was designed to maximise seating capacity while ensuring comfort and a natural flow through the restaurant. Key considerations included:

• Flexible Dining Areas: Combining communal tables, intimate booths, and outdoor picnic-style seating to cater to families, groups, and solo diners.

• Zoning: Creating distinct areas for dining, takeaway, and queuing, ensuring each function was seamlessly integrated without disrupting the overall atmosphere.

• Accessibility: Thoughtful placement of furniture and clear wayfinding made the space welcoming for all ages and abilities.

 

2. Interior Design Concept

The design concept brought a fresh take on seaside nostalgia, blending classic coastal charm with urban sophistication. Dubbed “Seaside Chic,” the interior celebrated traditional seaside details with refined, modern touches.

​Key Design Features:

• Colour Palette: A bright, cheerful scheme with strong stripe inspired from the traditional deckchair, with coastal blues, sandy neutrals, and pops of coral for a playful twist.

• Textures & Materials: Rustic wood paneling, soft leathers, and ceramic tiles added warmth and authenticity, while polished metals and clean lines provided a contemporary edge.

• Lighting: Layered lighting combined industrial-style fixtures with soft, ambient elements, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that transitioned seamlessly from day to night.

• Flooring: Durable yet stylish flooring mixed vintage-inspired patterns with modern finishes, tying the space together while ensuring practicality for high foot traffic.

 

3. Seaside-Inspired Details

Subtle, playful nods to British seaside culture were woven throughout the space to delight and surprise diners:

• Murals & Artwork: Local artists were commissioned to create vibrant wall art, including Edinburgh landmarks reimagined as coastal icons—sandcastles resembling Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat transformed into rolling sand dunes.

• Props & Dressing: The space was styled with vintage-inspired seaside props like retro beach buckets, nautical rope accents, and framed seaside postcards, adding charm and personality.

• Furniture: Custom-designed furniture featured soft curves and natural materials reminiscent of beachside kiosks, while sturdy finishes ensured durability for heavy use.

• Tableware: Menus and serving pieces were designed to complement the interior aesthetic, with simple, elegant touches that elevated the dining experience.

 

RESULTS

The redesigned space successfully captured the magic of the seaside while addressing the practical needs of a busy city-centre restaurant:

• Enhanced Atmosphere: The balance of nostalgic charm and urban refinement created an environment that was warm, playful, and inviting.

• Optimised Functionality: Smart space planning and durable materials ensured the venue was both visually appealing and practical for everyday use.

• Customer Delight: Guests were captivated by the thoughtful design details, from the playful murals to the stylish yet functional furniture.

 

The reimagined interior allowed Landy’s to stand out in Edinburgh’s competitive dining scene, creating a space where customers could enjoy great food in a setting that was as memorable as the meals themselves. Every detail, from the layout to the seaside-inspired décor, was designed to evoke joy, nostalgia, and the simple pleasures of life. 

 

To find out more about this project or discuss getting together to form a powerful partnership, email us at info@studio-so.co.uk. We'd love to hear from you.