SPICED UP

Surrounded by Ellerslie's commercial offices and corporate parks, Cafe Trends is well-used by professionals, who come for lunch, a take-away coffee or, business meetings. When design company Yellowfox was asked to give the space an upgrade, it used its associations with renowned companies in the design sector to create a contemporary, high-end design that reflects the clientele of the cafe.

"The aim was to update the hard-edged commercial look of the previous design, and create an avant-garde dining experience. The scheme for the space is black, white, silver and metallics, spiced up with a bit of colour," says Claire Bruford, designer at Yellowfox.

A key element to the design was the use of a Stonex counter in the colour Spice, from the new Colours of the World range by Trelise Cooper. This range of brightly coloured Stonex was designed and selected by the fashion designer for the residential and commercial benchtop and wall-lining markets.

"This range has just been launched. The vibrant selection of colours adds a punch to contemporary schemes," says designer Andrea Burney.

Another important factor was the use of DecoGlaze coloured-glass splashbacks behind the coffee station. The colour chosen is an industrial Gunsmoke Glitz, and is also used in the bathrooms. The women's bathroom features a gilded mirror and a White Paris chandelier, adding to the sophisticated nature of the design.

Black Paris chandeliers are situated above the tables and can be seen sparkling through the windows, enticing customers. These, and the Orb pendant light over one main seating area, were supplied by Lighting Direct.

Resene paint is used for the whole fit-out. A metallic shade, Catch 22, is featured on the wall that displays the menu boards. The Tile Warehouse was the supplier of the mirrored tiles on the end wall of the cafe. This wall reflects the chandelier lights, creating a glittering effect.

"Vision Wallcoverings' white, silver and black floral patterned wallpaper, chosen from the Carnaby range, adds a classic touch. This wallcovering adorns the walls in one of the main seating areas," says design manager Shelley Brockliss.

Wilsonart Madagascar laminate, supplied by Parburys and fabricated by Eurodesign, wraps around the front panel of the counter. Its high-gloss finish and timber grain is a new look that comes straight from Milan.

Yellowfox is set up to provide a comprehensive service for all design requirements, says Brockliss.

"Strong industry associations with high-profile companies in the building sector mean if there is anything we can't provide our clients, we can refer them to a specialist in that field."

For details, contact Yellowfox, phone (09) 525 3450. Email: design@yellowfox.co.nz. Or visit the website: www.yellowfox.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas