DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE
A component of a new community quilt
The firm focused on designing a vibrant ambiance that would service the needs of the hotel , but would also appeal to residents of the neighbourhood and the public at large . They approached the project from the onset as something central to the community vibe , with a focus on functional transitions from morning café settings , to casual lunches , and slightly more formal evening dining . The space was conceived with floor-to-ceiling windows that open seamlessly onto an exterior terrace , further contributing to the concept of extending the vibrant environment beyond the hotel ’ s boundaries .
“ We focused on creating multiple experiences in order to make the space very dynamic ,” explains Perron . “ We wanted to design a space that would become part of the neighbourhood fabric , where people will gather together for a drink or a bite to eat .”
A convivial and immersive setting
‘ Fun ’ is the operative word at the core of Pancho ’ s functional design . Custom-made terrazzo covers the floors and bar of a small dining room area articulated around a central kitchen , the latter immersing patrons in the convivial experience of the restaurant ’ s operations and bar service . With wrap-around seating directly overlooking kitchen operations , patrons are drawn into a dynamic and immersive experience . In keeping with the project proposal , Pancho offers multiple vibes within the same space . With its variety of seating types at the bar , around the kitchen , and on the terrace , the overall space articulates its sub-spaces .
“ Our intention from the outset was to design activation around the bar and the kitchen area in order to create a sort of ballet of captivating activity ,” explains Perron . “ As a firm , we focus intensely on user experiences when we plan spaces like this , and we think about how people will absorb the atmosphere and be energized by it .”
Tribute to traditional elements
Pancho ’ s casual spirit is evident throughout , from the presence of colourful garland-style lighting , to the choice of materials , including a terrazzo-clad bar around the kitchen area . The centered kitchen is a central component of Pancho and is highlighted by an imposing sculptural frame that descends from the ceiling . In addition to its functional purpose in concealing the mechanical components of the kitchen operations , the ceiling structure boldly reduces the space to a human scale , illuminated by hand-woven pendant lights designed by local artist , Amulette .
With its original seating , colourful patterns , and orange-tiled walls , the nouveau postmodern approach to Pancho succeeds in capturing the casual and exuberant essence of a Mexican taqueria .
TECHNICAL SHEET
Materials : Terrazzo , oak , stainless steel , stucco , leather , tile . Project Name : Pancho Completion : July 2021 Project Address : 6939 Decarie Blvd , Montreal , Quebec H3W 3E4 Project type : Restaurant Surface area : 103 m2 ( 1,110 sq . ft .) Construction : Devmont Design : Atelier Zébulon Perron Lead designer : Zébulon Perron Team : Adam Robinson , Sabrina Camiré , Mathieu Belen , Audrey Da Silva , Samuel Casaubon Photographer : Jean-Sébastien Senécal
www . zebulonperron . com
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