In creating spaces for Orange Door Kitchen's new facility in Acton, Studio InSitu envisioned a contrasting dialog and passage of discovery throughout a mostly open floor plan. In following the needs of the catering company's multiple food-based disciplines, the front-of-house spaces include a chef's bar-retail area, a demo kitchen, a dining room, and fireplace lounge. With their modernized farm-to-table canon, the kitchen showcases the culinary arts while also inviting participants in the process. A flexible dining room allows large family-style meals while the fireplace lounge invites guests to linger and indulge as they witness the theatrical process of a chef’s creation.

 

The Chef's Gallery is dominated by a large undulating light fixture, trimmed in brass and running the length of the space.  The cobalt penny-round back splash contrasts dramatically with the copper pots and retail cabinetry for other necessary items for the food lover. The dark, hex-floor tile and bright demo kitchen allow multiple chefs a blank canvas to create. The kitchen contrasts dramatically with the dark velvet curtains and walnut wood-work that sets the stage for a lush, inviting lounge with fireplace and library wall.  A playful mural wraps the corner wall of the space creating a whimsical notation to further the dramatic black&white juxtaposition. 

 

Design: Studio InSitu Architects Inc​. Tim Hess, Natalie Leighton, Andrew Ercolano, Nick Kane

Builder: M&M Construction, Brian Griffin

MEP Engineer: Kanayo Lala 

Photography: Studio InSitu Architects, Inc