African project Twist Restaurant – South Africa
64 africandesignmagazine . com
at the same time as the appointment of our new Executive Chef , Genghis San , so we have both a new look and a new taste ,” enthuses the hotel ’ s General Manager , Anton Meiring . Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Magaliesburg Mountains with the fragrance of our rose garden near the entrance to the restaurant , the location means that guests can savour quality taste sensations in a setting of tranquillity and beauty .”
“ Our brief for the project was a partial refurbishment to the existing 365m 2 , 160 overs , three meal restaurant to improve its efficiencies and provide a new aesthetic whilst retaining the iconic hotel ’ s genteel country atmosphere ,” explains Human . The result is a restaurant which has a local , relaxed , country appeal , which is muted and elegant
Twist Restaurant focuses on farm-fresh country-style food which is both wholesome and healthy . The restaurants also provides seasonal selections in its buffet offerings , with hearty oxtail and curries for the colder months and fresh salads during the summer season .
“ The new look for the Twist Restaurant comes six years since our last refurbishment ,” says Meiring . “ We have opened the area up so that the kitchen is now integrated into the dining area . Furnished in warm colours and with copper finishes and rustic chandeliers , there is a homely atmosphere geared to make the environment warm and inviting .”
“ It was extremely important to ensure the integrity of the design in relation to the local natural environment . Colours and textures of the surroundings are reproduced within the finishes and the original artworks celebrate the indigenous flora ,” reaffirms Human . The restaurant has a dramatic double volume space , which steps down and provides views over the Magaliesberg town and surrounds , and a new ‘ feature cooking ’ and deconstructed buffet component was integral to the design and operation of the restaurant
Since the hotel is fully operational and reasonably remote , the contractors had to ensure minimal disruptions and also work to a tight timeline , but still ensure teams were always available . “ The hotel ’ s location required decent logistics planning to execute the works efficiently ,” says Human . “ The buildings have been erected over an extended period ( around 40 or 50 years ), which lends a certain charm to the facility , but also means that the allocation of mechanical and electrical services is difficult to manage and general circulation is clumsy .
The contemporary , rustic design language used in the restaurant is refreshing and offers an excellent foil to the more refined fine dining restaurant , which also services the Mount Grace . The operators will be able to provide a service from a vastly improved buffet and cooking installation , that enhances the overall guest experience . AD