Magdalen, London

Client / James and Emma Faulks, David Abbot

A comprehensive restaurant refurbishment over three floors in Tooley Street, SE1.

The brief / Greig and Stephenson was appointed to create a design concept and detailed design followed by delivery of a 268 square metre restaurant in Southwark. The brief for this European and French inspired bistro was to create a dining space that was relaxed yet elegant.

The context / The restaurant space is spread over three floors in a Victorian building on a corner of Tooley Street, with the kitchen in the basement and two floors of bar and restaurant space accommodating approximately 90 covers.

What we did / As instructed, we created an intimate space that is opulent, but simple. Using a colour scheme of cream, red, timber and brass we've built a subtle, stylish backdrop for key vintage pieces, which we sourced from antique markets and shops. The finishing touch comes from the traditional bistro combination of mirrors, classic chandeliers, marble bar and classic white tablecloths.

Impact / Magdalen opened its doors in early 2007 to rave reviews – and not just for the food. Critics and diners agree we've created a gracious, yet low key interior that is the perfect foil to the first rate food on offer.