Both aesthetically and programmatically, Heaven's Dog was conceived of as two separate spaces. The noodle bar, set against the backdrop of a commercial style kitchen, is reminiscent of a Hong Kong style noodle shop. The atmosphere is shiny and bright, the palette no nonsense: white tile, stainless steel and black granite. This is an efficient cooking machine.
The cocktail bar and restaurant are adjacent to the noodle bar and have their own distinct entrance and atmosphere. Barchef Eric Adkins crafted the Heaven's Dog drink menu using "The Gentleman's Companion" a classic cocktail recipe book originally published in the 1940s–our intention was to create an interior that captured this golden era when the cocktail was king. A woven wood wall leads patrons into the space. Behind it lies the cocktail lounge, directly ahead is the bar. The 30-foot single cypress slab used for the bartop is undoubtedly the most striking feature of the design. We have had the piece of wood stockpiled in our shop for the last six years, waiting for the perfect project. Its subtle curve compliments the long and narrow space, and is juxtaposed with the undulating woven entry wall. Features like leather orange seats and classic 1960s globe lighting fixtures harken back to the past while providing a clean, updated look. The warm, natural palette inspired by the cypress continues in the rotary cut cork wall panels and rusted porcelain tile floors. The dining area is deliberately tucked away, and though intimate and comfortable, allows the bar to remain the main event.
Client: Charles Phan
Project Lead: Jeff Loehmann
Contractor: Terra Nova Industries
Published:
San Francisco Chronicle, March 22, 2009
San Francisco Business Times, February 20, 2009
