
The Essence of Upstate New York in Urban Dining
In the heart of Brooklyn, Mammoth has transformed a previously nondescript Chinese restaurant into Field Guide, a captivating farm-to-table dining experience that encapsulates the bucolic essence of Upstate New York. With a design inspired by the evocative paintings of Andrew Wyeth, the restaurant stands as a testament to how food and architecture can transcend traditional boundaries, creating a dining environment that tells a story.
Bridging Two Worlds: Modern and Rustic
Chef Tim Meyers, a native of Upstate New York, envisioned a restaurant that would not only offer delicious meals but also evoke the charming simplicity of his roots. To that end, he collaborated with Mammoth, who took on the challenge of blending a rustic aesthetic with the hip, modern vibe of Williamsburg. Grinshpun notes, "It was the basis for how we thought about the project," emphasizing the juxtaposition of elevated dining experiences with the warm familiarity of rural charm.
Design Inspirations: Painters and Candlelight
The décor reflects a thoughtful homage to 19th-century restaurants characterized by authenticity before globalization. The team utilized muted color palettes and soft, natural light, reminiscent of Wyeth's works. Notable are the pendant lights designed to mimic candle flames, swaying gently above tables as if to evoke a nostalgic warmth.
Kitchen and Bar: A Culinary Art Experience
The kitchen operates at the forefront of the farm-to-table movement, sourcing ingredients directly from local farms in an effort to promote sustainability while offering fresh flavors. The bar features a limestone base topped with translucent, sculpted acrylic, drawing parallels to the elegant yet rustic materials found in the countryside.
Creating Connection: Local Art and Community
Art plays a significant role in Field Guide's ambiance. A photograph by local artist Oliver Jevremov hangs behind the bar, showcasing found objects and fruit, further connecting the restaurant to its Williamsburg surroundings. The intentional focus on local art helps establish a deeper connection with the community, making dining at Field Guide not just a meal, but a cultural experience.
Breaking Away from Restaurant Norms
Mammoth’s approach to design willingly deviates from conventional restaurant tropes. As Grinshpun shares, "We wondered what restaurants looked like before they all looked the same." This philosophy promotes an innovative thinking process that prioritizes creativity and personal touch over industry clichés.
Final Thoughts: Experience the Bucolic Charm of Dining
Field Guide serves as a refreshing blueprint for what modern dining can and should be — an immersive experience that celebrates place, history, and community. It invites visitors not only to enjoy their meal but to relish in the stories behind the designs and the flavors they are tasting.
If you’re considering a new design for your home or a remodel that reflects a unique perspective – let us help you create a space that echoes your story. Call us today at 831-521-7729 to turn your vision into a reality!
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