The Umhlanga, August/September 2018
Franks Speakeasy has relocated to the recently renovated Flanders Boutique Mall in 
Mt. Edgecombe. The ownersemployed Sphere Design and Architecture to conceptualise, detail and manage the fit out of the new space, creating a new home to continue over 15 years of experience in the food and beverage industry.
The central drinks bar and gantry forms the hub and focal point, connecting patrons and creating a sense of community that the restaurant then revolves around. By removing and opening up one of the side walls the bar extends integrating internal with external.
Up-cycled or reclaimed materials were used wherever possible to ensure a green approach to the interior. Old parquet floors from an apartment were used not only as a flooring material but also in the bar counter itself. Old lights, stained glass panels and salvaged bricks were also included into the detailing by the Architects.
The overall aesthetic was driven by a fresh take on an eclectic industrial concept, a well-designed yet relaxed space. Using and exposing natural materials in their raw state such as steel, concrete, brick and timber was a design decision made early on in the project. Nothing needed to be too refined but the detail needed to be on point with the addition of one or two accent colours.
The open kitchen with wood fired oven churns out an amazing, carefully considered menu. If you don’t want to socialise around the bar or site inside then the outside deck is the perfect place to be.
Franks was the result of a successful and close collaboration between owners, designers and contractors.
Sphere Design and Architecture
031 312 5133
www.spheredesign.co.za
