Hiding the dirty work
To make the hall “friendly” and visually appealing, says Jaskiewicz, a 5,000-square-foot below-ground grid conceals the traditional back-of-house equipment from guests. The public areas, he says, are designed with a “genuine, gritty, Hell’s Kitchen feel.” Stations feature polished concrete, black counters and reclaimed wood elements, and 85 speakers play music throughout. One element he’s tried to keep out—cold fluorescent lights.