Architect and Builder April 2020 | Page 74

Oggie: The Natural Choice for Restaurant in Ballito When the team behind Katmandu wanted to highlight the natural elements behind their design concept, they relied on Oggie to ensure the flooring rose to the occassion. T he inspiration for Katmandu at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre comes from the dreams of a local Durban boy whose big city living abroad developed into a love affair for cutting edge food and design, whilst his bohemian ways took him to eclectic spaces all over the world with strong links to the great outdoors. Katmandu is a dining and entertainment hub - a space where you can explore tastes from around the world in a beautiful, outdoor environment. Enjoy a drink at the Summit Bar, a coffee or light snack in the relaxed outdoor seating area, or a meal within the more formal restaurant where glass stacking doors open to the garden. The Katmandu restaurant was created out of two existing buildings at the centre. Interior designer Pippa Mitchell worked with centre management, Evolution Architects and other team members to create an eye catching new space. The new building has an open, spacious feel and incorporates glass and natural timber elements. The design melds the natural elements of the space, incorporating a striking mature tree which grows straight through the ceiling of the bar. When the 74 doors are open the entire space opens up to a landscaped courtyard. The Natural Choice Following on from the use of natural materials in the design, the team felt that the flooring that best complemented the aesthetic was a beautiful timber floor supplied by Oggie. Although the restaurant and bar are joined into a cohesive space through the use of pergolas, it was important that both areas were uniquely defined. One of the ways this was achieved was through the use of two Oggie products. In the restaurant, Crudo Rustic, a beautiful dark wide plank was laid and in the bar the striking Chevron Living plank was used. Although the planks differ in style, the uniform colour finish ensures they flow seamlessly together. Crudo Rustic is favoured by clients who choose to custom finish their floors. There are numerous Diamond Oil or colour oil finishes available. These oils can be applied in the Oggie Colour Lab or on site. The 15/4 thick planks are available in widths of 190mm, 220mm and 260mm and in lengths of 1,900mm, 2,220mm and 2,200mm. Oggie Chevron is a contemporary take on the classic fishbone pattern. The ingenious construction of ready-made panels ensures easy, fast and stable in- stallation. Available in a variety of finishes the 15/4 thick panels are supplied in 300mm x 1,848mm planks. Advertorial