STK differentiates itself from traditional steakhouses, instead drawing in a more contemporary clientele and promoting a ‘see and be seen’ culture that encourages mingling.
DesignAgency has drawn from successful elements of STK’s other outposts such as New York and Las Vegas, while evolving the concept to ensure that this is the most impressive STK restaurant yet.
The design team approached the 9,500ft2, two-level venue as a sensory experience. A dramatic staircase entrance sequence from the street builds a sense of anticipation for the main dining area, which is revealed to guests as they turn a corner from the host station.
Here, operable floor-to-ceiling windows transform the space into an airy, covered patio overlooking Yorkville. Perhaps most strikingly, DesignAgency has drawn from the brand’s signature aesthetic to create striking, sinuous architectural forms that sweep across the ceilings and down statuary walls.
Further textural interest can be found in the longhorn installation over the bar. Acting as a motif for the STK dining concept, it also toys artfully with the room’s shadows and light.
Throughout the space, high contrast materials and lighting set a theatrical tone, shifting patrons’ attention from one feature to the next. Wood and leather brings a warmth and softness to the space, while STK’s signature rosewood-framed white rollback banquettes invite conversation. Soft lavender lighting and up-lit floral arrangements dissipate light to create a warm glow over the guests, tables and architecture – diverging from the masculine vibe traditionally associated with steakhouse restaurants.
The restaurant comprises various levels and zones that add further to the visual interest of the space. A private dining room, enclosed by sliding panels with a random checkerboard of tinted glazing, also has the option of connecting to the main dining room.
From the raised dining area, meanwhile, patrons can enjoy a bird’s-eye-view of the restaurant, embracing the ‘see and be seen’ culture DesignAgency wished to create.
Imagery © Nikolas Koenig
