This design studio project focused on the ideas of abstract concepts and thematic research to develop a design for an upscale restaurant. After identifying an abstract concept – perplex – different elements of thematic development were researched as potential design directions. Research became a major component of the project, utilizing online, library and journal sources to gather data for the thematic background for the restaurant. In addition, other areas of research focused on the technical issues of restaurant design and accessibility requirements.

The word perplex means to make unable to grasp something clearly. The decision to use this concept came from much research, specifically looking at the works of Edgar Allen Poe. The concept was used as the basis for the thematic development of the restaurant, which focused on the town of Brittany, in Northern France. This town was influenced by a movement known as The Matter of Britain, which included music, arts, architecture and literature. The movement began in Britain and had an impact on this region of France. The Matter of Britain emphasized the dark, mysterious and romantic elements that are often found in Poe’s writings.

The results of the research were used to develop the thematic design of the restaurant. The functional layout of the restaurant, selection of materials and finishes, and the ambience experienced by guests were a direct result of the research component of this project. As shown in the project, the development of interior spaces is a direct result of the various avenues of research undertaken.