The Common Bond team had a dilemma: the Houston Heights location was half-built but it didn’t reflect their brand, and it wasn’t working for the intended functions. We pushed the pause button and quickly conducted a brand strategy exercise to determine what the restaurant’s concepts would offer at each location. Based on our study and owner input during the vision session, we created a 3-tier model for the architecture and interiors.  The Fast-casual Bistro, Fine-dining Brasserie, and on-the-go locations respond to each type of service, location and demographic.

Our solution for the brand’s Bistro concept blends fast-casual convenience with upscale menu offerings. For the Houston Heights location, we salvaged as much as possible from the half-built space and adapted it to meet the brand material palette and vibe.  This neighborhood location caters to families and the work-from-home crowd that enjoys a relaxed, comfortable and dog-friendly environment. Our interior design concept embraced the front-porch feel with raw wood trellises, patio-style furnishings and a large outdoor dining area.

Located inside a protected landmark building, our interior design concept retained the original components of the interior, including the concrete floors and large overhead beams and trolley. Our team of architects worked with the Houston historic committee for approval of the exterior signage and a new covered dining canopy. Visitors from near and far enjoy this re-purposed complex of buildings -and especially the delicious food from Common Bond!

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