Goodnight’s Prime Steak + Spirits
Goodnight’s Prime Steak + Spirits is located on the north side of the historic plaza in downtown Healdsburg. The project consisted of converting the existing Ferrari-Carona Tasting Room (originally a shoe store when built in 1880) into a unique high-end restaurant and bar. The design, inspired by its original character, aimed to restore the storefront preserving the history and local architectural character while integrating contemporary elements. Approximately 3,205 SF of existing net space was substantially remodeled, all existing mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems have been replaced and upgraded. One of the distinguished aspects of the design was increasing floor area by raising the roof and adding a 750 SF mezzanine level and the addition of a 150 SF roof terrace on the south side of the upper floor mezzanine. The additional square footage allows for more intimate spaces for diners and flow throughout the building, and the outdoor patio provides diners the option to dine “al fresco”. The exterior shell of the structure was reused with a portion of the roof removed to allow for the mezzanine, 35% of the original structure is intact. The primary structural system for strengthening the 144 year old masonry structure and adding the mezzanine was the addition of two steel moment frames and concrete slab on metal decking; the new roof was a combination of steel and wood framing. New areas include dining area, bar, demonstration kitchen, scullery, back prep, toilet rooms as well as a new two-stop hole-less glass hydraulic elevator. While the glass hydraulic elevator intersects accessibility, functionality, contemporary style, the under the stairs glass wine refrigerator also utilizes space that might otherwise be overlooked while also being visually appealing. The long and narrow infill structure with neighboring buildings on either side did not provide much natural light, when reimagining the space the overly dark interior was addressed by adding a continuous skylight to 20% to the new roof. Adding the integration of a proven acoustical treatment behind white oak wood slats along the walls and ceiling create the perfect ambient environment for an enjoyable meal. What would have been an overly dark interior is now a double-height opening flooded with natural light that bounces off of the warm toned wooden walls. Creating stunning ambiance and intimate acoustics providing an inclusive and enjoyable experience for the restaurant’s guests.
Design Challenge
The project location provided the majority of the challenges for the design to overcome, how to create ample, spacious and inviting dining space in a narrow building with occupied neighboring buildings. Utilizing the space effectively to create a spacious dining environment with flow was a major design consideration. The addition of the glass elevator and wine storage unit add functionality and contemporary style without compromising on dining space. Without the ability to add additional dining space in the surrounding lots, the option to add a second floor would provide more square footage however this would exaggerate the buildings shortcomings regarding light. The solution was to create a mezzanine level that provides more seating upstairs and minimizes the darkening effect a full second floor would have on the building. Choosing to convert 20% of the new roof into skylights over the double-height ceiling for the ground floor patrons invigorates the space with a flood of natural light effectively diminishing the naturally dimly lit building. Minimalist drop lights hanging from the double height ceiling adding a stunningly efficient and elegant solution to the lighting challenge adding both light and intrigue to the space. To respect the original facade and streetscape, the raised roof was set-back nine feet from the front of the building, resulting in an additional 150 SQ FT of roof terrace to further the dining space which creates an additional outdoor private seating area.
Physical Context
The project is located on the north side of the historic plaza in downtown Healdsburg, surrounded by buildings on both sides; only the street facade and rear alley facade are exposed. The major focal point of the project’s design was to simultaneously maintain the building’s historic local architectural heritage, while becoming a contemporary gathering place for the current community. Inspired by its original character, this was achieved by restoring the street facing storefront, preserving the history and local architectural character while integrating contemporary elements into the facade. Once one crosses the threshold, they enter into an invigorated space with modern amenities and contemporary aesthetic.