David Collins Studio has created brand new interiors for The Georgian restaurant in Harrods, a luxury tearoom and dining experience
Originally opened in 1911 and updated in 1928, historic Grade II listed features – including crystal chandeliers, coffered ceiling frieze and ornamental wrought ironwork – have been restored and harmoniously integrated within the new scheme. By day The Georgian restaurant in Harrods offers afternoon tea, evening service features a dinner menu of British classics overseen by chef Calum Franklin. Throughout, guests are treated to live music performances, with dishes served from Art Deco-inspired trolleys.
Paying homage to Harrods’ rich history as a tea retailer and the original 1911 restaurant, David Collins Studio’s interiors for The Georgian are inspired by Art Deco glamour and theatricality. The original decorative curved and moulded ceiling anchors the dining space and provides inspiration for the design language throughout. Jewel-toned amethyst purple drapery and upholstery sit alongside an opulent palette of cream and champagne neutrals, polished brass and mirror finishes. Bespoke geometric and polka dot patterned flooring speaks to Deco-era decadence, whilst curvilinear and scalloped forms add whimsey.
The Georgian benefits from a 30-seat outdoor bar and terrace. This wasn’t open on the chilly November day when I went for tea, but the department store’s existing terracotta façade and iron railings have been updated with decorative wall lights and climbing plants. Custom black and white polka dot tiling lines the floor, whilst a retractable dark bronze pergola covers the space. The bar mirrors the form of the building’s arched windows, in mirror and purple tile with a bar top in Calcutta Viola marble.
Simon Rawlings, chief creative officer at David Collins Studio says, “The Georgian is one of the most historic spaces within Harrods. The decadent restaurant originally opened in 1911 and as such includes a plethora of original Grade II listed elements, which we had the privilege of incorporating as an integral part of our overall vision. Heritage pieces always come with their own unique set of challenges, but to have the opportunity to be able to restore these elements to their former glory and see them reinstated, breathing new life and energy, is incredibly rewarding.
“We revived the original crystal chandeliers and combined these with additional new chandeliers to create a twinkling canopy of crystal in the centre of the room. This striking display hangs beneath the coffered ceiling, which has been carefully restored and delivers a theatrical ambience with its striking curvature. The reintroduction of these inimitable pieces effortlessly evokes the sense of Deco-era decadence, which feels perfectly fitting – and ensures that the great tradition of afternoon tea will continue to be enjoyed in the most sumptuous surroundings for many years to come.”
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