NAC (North Audley Canteen) is a stylish French restaurant based in London’s Mayfair distinct. It’s been a mainstay since 2013, and it’s known for beautifully presented French-inspired shared plates, decadent desserts and a strong sense of place and community. In 2023, NAC launched three locations in the Middle East. The first was in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and the second, pictured here, opened in Doha, Qatar in early 2023. A third location just opened in Dubai, UAE. All three share the same design direction, which was to capture the feeling of the original restaurant while making it appealing to younger, sophisticated travel-inclined diners in their respective cities. DesignLSM spearheaded the design concepts for the trio of global openings, working alongside food and beverage consultants Restaurant Keys to ensure the brand’s modern eclectic style — which draws inspiration from nostalgic memories of European travel — was effectively translated.
NAC Doha’s interior embraces a timeless, engaging and inviting feel that encapsulates the social and stylish environment associated with Parisian bistros — the same feeling that made the original location in London so successful. The design integrates soft edges and curved forms throughout to create a welcoming and relaxed ambience. Warmer timber tones complement the neutral color palette, enriched with terracotta hues. Materiality plays a key part in emphasizing distinct design narratives that evoke Parisian cafes, such as the use of rattan back chairs and a bar front. Bespoke globe lights provide a warm glow for guests.
Images courtesy of DesignLSM
