Step into Duck & Waffle in Edinburgh, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a neon dreamscape. Warm, dim lights cast a surreal glow over the dining experience, creating an atmosphere that feels like a personal invitation to a vibrant, otherworldly feast.
Led by Senior Associate Michael Curry, dpa Lighting Consultants joined forces with Fabled Studio to turn client SUSHISAMBA’s vision into a reality. Together, they crafted a space that blends modern design with tradition, making Duck & Waffle a sensory experience that extends beyond the plate.
This restaurant’s lighting design is a symphony of colors and textures, brought to life by quasi-theatrical projectors hanging from high-level trussing. Dining tables are bathed in a dramatic glow, accentuated by hidden linear LEDs that add a touch of enchantment to live kitchen and dining stations. The bar and service station shelves sparkle with integrated flat-panel LEDs, creating a feast for the eyes that’s as delightful as the menu itself.
In the private dining spaces, Duck & Waffle brings traditional design with a modern aesthetic. Funky Scottish waterfowl, elegantly illuminated with dedicated artwork lighting, serve as unique companions for diners. Neon signage weaves throughout, tying the entire experience together with a visually striking bow.
Beyond its visual allure, Duck & Waffle’s lighting design is committed to sustainability. A carefully planned lighting system not only reduces the restaurant’s carbon footprint and running costs but also showcases a dedication to responsible design. With LED light sources at its core, the design ensures efficiency, longevity, and minimal maintenance. When refurbishment time comes, the equipment can be recycled through circular economy schemes.
The intelligent lighting control system, guided by an astronomical time clock, allows for precise dimming and control zoning. This means a variety of lighting scenes, adjusting the ambiance throughout the evening for an increasingly intimate atmosphere. The LIT Lighting Design Awards 2023 rightfully crowned it as a winner, but beyond accolades, Duck & Waffle sets a new standard for immersive and eco-conscious dining.
