The restaurant “Sansibar by Breuninger” in Düsseldorf is housed in the prestigious Kö-Bogen designed by Daniel Libeskind. It accommodates the first mainland branch of the famous Sansibar restaurant from the North Sea island of Sylt. Herbert Seckler who owns the restaurant on the island is a national celebrity in his own right. Now he has granted his first licence for a restaurant outside the island.
Dittel Assoziierte were given the task of designing and implementing the restaurant measuring 230 m² and adjacent areas. The brief was to transfer the relaxed and informal atmosphere of the original restaurant to the Rhine metropolis.
From lifestyle to room design
In keeping with Breuninger harmony, the restaurant was to radiate a natural, high-class flair. The aim was to unify two strong brands, Breuninger and Sansibar, under a single roof so that each can profit from the other.
In order to experience the atmosphere of Sylt, typical materials were used, such as old wood for the panelling and tables made of solid oak. Wine is a key theme for the Sansibar, and this was integrated in the draft plans as a characteristic element.
Various zones offer seats for about 130 guests. The central element in the room is the large bar. During the day, it provides an open view of the Breuninger sales area, inviting guests to relax with a snack. Whereas flexible furniture clusters line the façade which offers a scenic view over the lake, the bench seating at the front ends encompasses the room. It is backed by a patinated wall design reminiscent of an old wine cellar. Two large solid tables in the middle of the room promote communication and informality, while the suspended candelabras provide pleasant lighting.
The mission: to unite two strong brands under one roof while, for the first time, translating the look and feel of an island location into an urban context. […] The Stuttgart-based team developed an entirely new design language to achieve this.
fizzz 07.2015
Retreat spaces
The regulars’ table in one corner offers large groups a cosy place for withdrawal. The focus here is on wine. The wall and ceiling are made of a panelling material which looks like stacked wine crates. A window integrated in the panelling offers a glimpse of the well stocked climate controlled wine cellar. Above the solid patinated table, lamps made of wine bottles provide mood lighting.
A second ingenious feature besides the regulars’ table is the four booths bathed in indirect lighting. The represent simple wooden huts but their design and lighting are simplistic and modern, again demonstrating a definite link to the Sansibar on Sylt.
Sylt atmosphere
The flooring consists of an unconventional parquet with a deliberately rustic, coarse surface in a light slate tone. The wall design features matching sandy hues, while white solid surface material on the counter tops completes the welcoming atmosphere. Subtle pops of color are added by the striped cushion fabrics, evoking associations with Sylt for the guest. Even outside of Breuninger’s opening hours, the Düsseldorf branch of Sansibar remains open, offering exquisite culinary experiences paired with friendly and unpretentious service.
