After nine years of operation, Blue on Highland in Needham, Massachusetts had proved itself as an American bistro whose dining experience rivaled those of Boston or New York City. To celebrate its institutional status, Blue on Highland’s owners tapped Kripper Studio to create an interior environment that more clearly expressed their community and culinary values. The redesign focuses on existing, historic elements of the structure by removing sheetrock walls to reveal brick with steel bracing. The bar was moved from its original location in order to serve as the design’s main focal feature in direct view of Highland Avenue. A structural-steel armature suspends over the bar, while hickory and environmentally conscious surfaces provide a counterpoint to the industrial material. Movement of the bar also allowed for the installation of five high-walled booths that foster more intimate interactions within the lively scene.
