Home 9 Project 9 Café Renee

Café Renee

100 Portland St, Toronto, Ontario

Elevating Hospitality Through Design & Craftsmanship

Café Renee’s complete interior transformation redefined the space into a high-end hospitality experience. RFP Design Group was entrusted with the design, fabrication, and execution of key architectural elements, seamlessly integrating luxury aesthetics with functional efficiency. The project scope included the front bar, back bar, coffered ceiling, wall panels, custom U-shaped banquettes, and bespoke entry doors, all tailored to enhance the café’s brand identity and customer experience.

Design & Execution

1. Custom Millwork & Architectural Elements

  • Front & Back Bar – Featuring maple-stained wood veneer, stone countertops, and aged pewter detailing for a premium finish.
  • Coffered Ceiling & Wall Paneling – Constructed with solid wood framing, integrating reclaimed marble for texture and depth.
  • U-Shaped Banquettes – Upholstered in CTL Prestige Lodge Cornflower leather, designed for both style and comfort.
  • Entry Doors – Custom-built wooden doors with frosted acrylic inserts, enhancing the café’s inviting ambiance.

2. Functional Integration & Guest Experience

  • Ergonomic Design – Seating and layout optimized for comfort and efficient space utilization.
  • Smart Storage Solutions – Built-in compartments within banquettes and bars to maximize functionality.
  • Seamless Lighting & Branding – Integrated LED lighting within bar shelving to highlight product displays.

Challenges & Solutions

1. Material Availability & Timelines

  • Sourcing premium materials posed potential delays.
  • Solution: Strategic procurement planning with local suppliers for efficient delivery.

2. Live-Environment Installation

  • The café remained operational during renovations.
  • Solution: A phased construction approach to minimize disruption.

3. Architectural Alignment

  • Aligning new elements with existing structures required precision.
  • Solution: Advanced site measurements and adaptive customization ensured a seamless fit.

Impact & Final Outcome

The transformed Café Renee now reflects a seamless blend of luxury, functionality, and customer engagement. The cohesive integration of high-end materials, precision craftsmanship, and strategic spatial design enhances both the ambiance and operational efficiency of the space.