Array redefines the sensorial experience of London’s Claro restaurant

The exclusive St. James’s neighbourhood in central London sets the tone for the new Claro restaurant, located in the historic Waterloo Place building that was once a bank headquarters. Its elegant façade accommodates a stylish interior, divided into different areas, where DLSM Studio has successfully combined a sophisticated yet intimate design that lives up to the reputation of its architectural location.

The restaurant’s main dining area is particularly remarkable, a double-height space that preserves original elements of the building, such as the unique ceiling mouldings and the impressive wrought iron balustrade. These elements, combined with the modern interior design finishes, create an elegant and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for savouring the Eastern Mediterranean cuisine prepared by renowned chef Ryan Schmueli.

Upon entry the gaze is drawn upwards towards the ceiling, from which three Array sculptural luminaires appear to float harmoniously. Their grand proportions engage with the architectural space, creating a calming atmosphere that subtly envelops diners.

The design gracefully addresses the spatial challenge posed by DLSM Studio within such as characteristic space thanks to the possibilities of bespoke craftsmanship, especially with regard to the height. The main concept was to interfere as little as possible with space or the dining experience despite its generous proportions. Array manages to bring everything together, providing visual dynamism and sensorial harmony.

The sculptural silhouette designed by Umut Yamac, combines downlight and up-light from its lofty position that envelops the space, simultaneously creating a vibrant and dynamic visual effect that draws in the diners below. Fine threads stretched between aluminium rings define the three suspended volumes, interacting with an ethereal light, reverberating with the architectural context, worthy of this historic London building.

The cylindrical shapes, matching the curves of the large arched windows, together with the soft colour tones, cleverly integrate with the style of the project, where natural materials such as wood, leather, and steel underline the industrial aesthetic of the space, contrasting with the traditional structural elements. The resulting assemblage quietly integrates into the setting; on the contrary, it sculpts a timeless interior that seems to have always been there.

Credits:
– Project by: DLSM Studio
– Photography: Stevie Campbell