in the fashion and design arena, one can be forgiven for being fatalistically dismissive… the ‘been there, done that’ remark is however not entirely valid with the hospitality designs of david collins. the severe demands that patrons require from these establishments are only made worse by the practicalities of the business, not only the working parts but in terms of the atmosphere as well. staying power in hospitality is reliant on the satisfaction and performance of both sides… the business of entertainment… a delicate balance.
i have often visited designer establishments that try so hard that the climax becomes invariably stale even if their food or service is not. re-furbishment is costly and even assuming the other ingredients like location, convenience, consistency and loyalty play along, the experience of the guest is still such a fragile affair that it needs to be approached with the same care as brain surgery.
mr collins has proven his success in creating this daring balance countless times over. his unique methods of injecting a restrained fantasy or nostalgia in a contemporary fashion, ensures that the establishment’s ego never overwhelms. at the same time the business aspects of maintenance is addressed with quality, simple and practical designs - always extremely comfortable and calculated, the proprietor’s interests balanced with that of the patron. bravo…