The Client was looking to develop a unique Florida waterfront restaurant and lounge concept. A “Boat-Up” concept was presented to Sol Design Studio (Sol). The design theme is based on a South Pacific motif with a modern design translation.
Sol, with the Client, approached the design that Tiki Docks was more than just a restaurant. The design is to engage the guest throughout each space. Using the Polynesian influence, and drawing from the natural elements of the site, the design visually engages the public from the start, with the overhanging roof, wall waterfall, rock walls, and sweeping views of the Alafia River. Three exterior experiences are designed into the restaurant. A covered lounge area, the “Bamboo Room”, which has a waterfall feature, rock walls, and contemporary Polynesian decor. The second is an exterior deck, which flows indoors, with a Floridian and Polynesian hybrid exterior bar and tiki torches around the perimeter of the exterior deck. The third experience is a deck that feels like a volcanic area with black rock walls and the use of lights, sounds, and water misters around the perimeter simulating a volcano.
The exterior and interior flow seamlessly together constructing the experience with multi-layered finishes from bamboo shoots, synthetic thatch, graffiti, to natural finishes. The design challenge was the location, in a flood and high-wind zone. The design, elevated above the flood lines, adds to the “floating” appearance of the restaurant. The concrete and steel bones of the structure are softened by the multi-finish layers of natural materials.
