Time really does fly when you’re having fun. As Schmidt Design Studio celebrates its 10th anniversary, we’re looking forward to all the creativity, challenges and fun the future holds.
We’ve put together a list of ten design elements that best reflect our past and are sure to influence our future.
Schmidt Design Studio’s Top 10
1. Form + Function
Who says functionality can’t be beautiful? We love creating visually stunning spaces that also serve an important purpose the client. Orlando’s East End Market is one of our favorite examples. This public market will house a commissary kitchen, banquets facility, individual market spaces and offices, and is set to open in spring 2013.
2. Facelifts for Notable Brands
Everyone needs a little polish once in a while, which is why many brands have updated to a more modern aesthetic. We helped First Watch – The Daytime Café transform its brand with a fresh color palette and contemporary design elements. We loved taking part in the nationwide rebranding of one of our favorite eateries.
3. Green Keeps Growing
The quest for sustainability will continue to grow as we create more imaginative, earth-friendly designs. Green spaces not only provide natural beauty, but also offer environmental benefits. Keep an eye out for living walls as this design feature is gaining popularity for its interesting appearance and functionality.
4. Historical Nods
Every project has a story, and we love the opportunity to incorporate that story in our design. Historical spaces are our favorite because of the rich heritage they provide. Cask & Larder, in Winter Park, FL, is a perfect example. Existing elements including a rustic wooden beam, prohibition era liquor bottles and a rusted gate were used to help tell the location’s story.
5. Urban Appeal meets Rustic Charm
Opposites attract, especially when it comes to design. We love the surprising way sleek, urban details compliment a rustic farmhouse aesthetic. Orlando’s East End Market will showcase the marriage of these themes through rustic fixtures featuring modern accents.
6. The Rise of Tasting Rooms
Savvy brands know samples are a great way to get new customers and build loyalty, so many have started incorporating tasting rooms into their locations. These spaces reflect the brand itself through thoughtful, well-planned interiors. Our friends at Quantum Leap Winery included a tasting room to their distribution center and distillery, so patrons can sip, sample and socialize.
7. Vivid Lighting
Lighting is an important aspect of every space, and new technology creates endless possibilities. LED systems that mirror the beat of music or general vibe of a room are a common trend. These lighting displays make for an exciting and interesting guest experience. For Vince Carter’s Restaurant in Daytona, FL, we created interest within the ceiling through three dimensional boxes and star-like, pulsating LED lights.
8. Fun with Patterns and Textures
Anything goes when it comes to patterns and textures in 2013. We’re looking forward to continuing our use of stripes, chevron, waves, and layered effects to build eye-catching designs. Cocina 214 in Winter Park, FL showcases our wonderful use of dimension and finishes in its bold entryway.
9. Larger than Life Digital Graphics
Artwork plays a big part in the overall success of a design, with large-scale, digital prints growing in popularity. First Watch – The Daytime Café started a new tradition by placing a large abstract image of a fork in each of their restaurants. The First Watch fork will soon become an image patrons recognize and associate with the brand.
10. Branding a Space
For an established brand, the overall feel of the location is an important part of its identity. With that in mind, we incorporate a brands personality in our designs. For our friends at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, we honor the brands history and character by making all of the spaces warm and inviting – an important characteristic of the restaurant’s personality.
As always, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued support. The last decade was filled with amazing projects and wonderful memories. We’re so proud of each of our projects and look forward to another fabulous ten years!
Sincerely,
The Schmidt Design Studio Team
