FIGO

The ground floor commercial space in high rise condos can be a space that leaves little to the imagination. Structural changes are impossible to make and sometimes the lack of ample space makes it tricky to open a shop, much less a restaurant. But in November 2015, Figo proved that even an uninspired concrete space can be transformed into an incredibly warm, welcoming and inviting restaurant. But doing so wasn’t easy. “We really had to edit the space allocation for supplies and inventory, and be intelligent about seating configuration,” says Christina Kuypers from Figo. “Our kitchen is one of the most efficiently designed kitchen that we have … but it was very challenging for us to put in, it was a real commitment to use every single inch of this restaurant to the best of our ability.”

The results speak for themselves. Figo has been a hit with locals and visitors to the city since it opened. Whether you decide to sit in the spacious 85 seat dining room or 110 seat patio, Figo is your destination for a chic dining experience. On any given week, you can find everyone from young professionals enjoying lunch during the week, to families congregating for brunch on Sundays. And you can feel the warm, hospitable ambiance as soon as you step inside. The polished concrete floor contrasts nicely with the floral ceiling. “We have a very light palette, plenty of light, beautiful textures and fabrics, sloping line work and arches. It’s very graceful and intentionally feminine,” says Christina.