Sukawatee Restaurant, St Albans
A once-cramped historic building was transformed into a striking three-storey restaurant, blending innovative kitchen design with open-plan dining inspired by Thai and Malay cuisine.
Call Us now to get a quote for our services or to request more information.
About Project
The recently completed restaurant fit out for Sukawatee St Albans. This restoration of a once cramped historic building beside the ancient clock tower created accommodation over three floors. The design centred around Thai and Malay cuisine and innovatively splits the kitchen between basement preparation and a showcase cooking area at first floor using a microlift system. As a result the ground floor becomes a generous dining area open to both Market Street and French Row at the rear. Creating an open plan interior required an innovative fire strategy by Semper utilising a modest budget, a dense palette of natural materials and patinated metals linked to the tropical and cultural origins of the cuisine was utilised throughout, with glimpses from the dining areas of food preparation. In contrast a light private dining area composed of earthy tones and exposed plaster enjoys views over the tiles roofscape of St Albans.
What We Did
The project involved converted three industrial containers to form a cafeteria and drive through coffee. This innovative and ambitious project had its challenges along the way, which one by one were overcome and resolved. From issues with local authorities, drainage, power supply to planning permission – nothing was straight forward, however with the highly skilled and experience Colin Hill team onsite every day, there was always a solution to be found.
The design and build took place amidst a global pandemic to which the hospitality industry took a significant hit. It was during a time where building materials were vast which provided many challenges. Robbie and Jo recruited a strong team to launch the drive through coffee element of business, which was greatly received in the local community making the most of the opportunity for a growing takeaway market. As soon as Government restrictions were lifted the business was in a prime position to open their doors to their stunning, modern coffee house – providing a perfect long-awaited blend of friendships and coffee in the local community. The business ethos is “Coffee with Friends – the perfect blend” and remains at the heart of their business.
Since opening the couple have just celebrated being awarded 5 start rating in Food Hygiene, as area that will remain a top priority for the business along with providing quality, consistency, and a first-class service. It is also a gratifying nod to the staff for their hard work, grit, and determination in getting through challenges and uncertain times. The business is going from strength to strength in sales, positive feedback and recommendations. Whilst Robbie and Jo catch their breath, they are always hungry for a new opportunity. Now the Amici Coffee brand model has been perfected, it is a great business model to launch further establishments in the future. We’ll certainly be excited to see what’s next for Amici Coffee.
