Seiber Revamps Ray’s On The River

Stacey Kirby of Seiber Design describes how lighting was used to help achieve the mood reminiscent of a supper club for the interior remodel of Ray’s on the River. It’s a bit daunting taking on the remodel of a cherished destination restaurant. Ray’s is an Atlanta mainstay with a loyal following and Seiber Design not only rose to the occasion, they garnered industry recognition with an ASID excellence award for their efforts.

Q: What where some of the design challenges you faced in lighting the redesign at Ray’s?

SK: Ray’s was a remodel, so as with many remodels our primary restraint was working within the existing building envelope. The existing space was divided into small dining rooms on varying floor levels that resulted in extremely low ceiling heights in many areas.

Q: How did you decide on the fixtures selected? (was it a mood you were trying to execute for the environment, did you have a look in mind?)

SK: We had two primary goals in mind while designing the space.

First, the clients program. Seiber Design was commissioned to create an elegant environment reminiscent of a supper club without being too literal (themed) or formal. The use of limestone, iron chandeliers, a water feature at the entry and “portals” were some of the design elements that our client requested for the concept.

Second, we wanted to unify the space by pulling together the various levels in the dining room with a common element. We achieved this by using a custom Neidhardt chandelier in a repetitive fashion that extends the length of the dining spaces. The chandeliers not only provided a strong focal element that tie the spaces together, they add just the right amount of casual elegance to complement and enhance the décor. In the bar and private dining room we customized a Fontana Arte standard chandelier design by adding a second tier. The final product resulted in the feel of a traditional chandelier by having two tiers (as opposed to the standard product that has only one ring), yet detailed in a simple modern fashion that Fontana is well known for.

To soften, and to give the space an intimate feel we designed with Frank Neidhardt custom floor and table lamps utilizing a dark chunky wood base with a light fabric shade.

Q: Are you and your client satisfied with the finished product?

SK: Our client is extremely happy with the finished product. Everyone involved worked very hard, took ownership in the design and we feel that the space reflects this.

Q: How would you describe your working relationship with Illuminations Contract?

SK: Everyone in our office loves working with the Illuminations staff. We always receive great customer service, timely quotes, and samples when required. We also value the ability to call on Illuminations, describe what we are looking for, and they respond to our needs with several product solutions.

Q: From where do you draw inspiration for your interiors?

SK: We draw our design inspiration through collaboration within our studio. Our colleagues have diverse backgrounds and interpretations of design influences which our interiors are derived from.

Sieber Design, founded in 1987, is a studio of architects and interior designers providing facilities planning and building and design services for both the private sector clients and individuals.

You can contact them directly and see more of their award winning work at sieberdesign.com