Americano, Authentic Flavors of Italy – Dramatic Miami-Meets-Manhattan Design

The newly opened Americano restaurant located at 957 Broadway in Bayonne, New Jersey is a 6,000 square foot restaurant designed with a Miam meets Manhattan vibe. The upscale Italian restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, so we had to put on our thinking cap to design comfortable and flexible spaces that flow well together and have multi-uses. For instance, patrons can enjoy a morning croissant or scone at the breakfast bar, or an Old-Fashioned in the swanky cocktail lounge before heading over to the dining room for dinner. After dinner, guests can enjoy dessert in the chic lounge.

The main dining room is sophisticated and cozy and reminiscent of Old Hollywood with jewel-toned velvet and leather couches and chandeliers. Smaller parties can enjoy a private enclave with the smart use of heavy drapery that partitions off from the main dining room. This project was a true collaboration with owner and developer, Lance Lucarelli, Architetra, and features the exquisite taste of interior designer, Barbara Balongue of Balongue Design Inc.

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Harleysville, PA, at 2250 Rittenhouse Rd, the transformation of a seasonal pavilion into Montgomery County PA’s newest Wedding & Event Venue marks a significant architectural endeavor. This venue, designed to host an array of events from wedding ceremonies and receptions to corporate meetings and fundraisers, seamlessly blends traditional architectural elements with modern amenities. The expansive 4100 square feet of space is thoughtfully utilized to accommodate up to 200 guests, ensuring a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for any occasion.

As an architect, my vision was to enhance the venue’s connection to its stunning golf course surroundings while preserving the charm of its original structure. The use of gable and truss in the design pays homage to traditional architecture, creating a sense of warmth and familiarity. The dramatic neon-lit coffered ceilings in the ballroom-style dining room add a contemporary flair, setting a captivating backdrop for celebrations. The outdoor spaces are equally considered, with a covered patio offering an idyllic setting for wedding ceremonies, complemented by the picturesque views of the sweeping golf course.

A unique feature of this venue is the lighted Cupola, complete with a rope for the bride and groom to ring a bell after their vows, symbolizing the joyous start of their new journey together. This thoughtful detail, along with the venue’s blend of traditional and modern design elements, makes it a distinguished destination for memorable events in Montgomery County.

Exit 13 – Transport to Italy on a Vespa and Enjoy Italian Specialties at this Garrett Hill Multigenerational Family Run Gastropub

Exit 13 Gastropub, found at 910 Conestoga Road in Bryn Mawr, Pa. offers more than just its tempting Italian delicacies and handmade pizzas. The restaurant’s distinct and fun-filled design, as characterized by Main Line Today, is a significant attraction. The establishment has been recently revamped under the creative guidance of Luciano Di Felice, the firstborn of Antonio Di Felice, the founder of Garrett Hill Pizza.

The refurbished bistro, named after the Blue Route exit, exudes a Villanova neighborhood charm. It features an arched ceiling, an upper-level dining space, and foldable glass doors resembling a garage style. The interior decor is interestingly playful with Vespa barstools and local license plates, street signs, and motorized European scooters embellishing the walls.

Luciano Di Felice, who envisioned this transformation of the pizzeria, said he wanted the restaurant concept to reflect the freedom and joy that comes from driving small sports cars and bikes in Italy. Vroom!