Inspired by historic Belgian and Dutch libraries with subtle references to Victorian mansions, The Watson is “an emporium of curiously crafted cocktails, worldly small plates and refreshing conversation”. Located in Mount Pleasant, a typical cosmopolitan neighbourhood in Vancouver, the restaurant was recently renovated by studio Erica Colpitts Interior Design. The high ceiling space has a dining area on the ground floor and a more intimate mezzanine with a privileged view of the entire restaurant. The bar is the centrepiece of The Watson. Adorned with a tall mirror enveloped in a backlit bronze arch and complemented by antique-filled shelving, the bar has a decadently edged quartz countertop and some contemporary pendant lights.

On the ground floor, the designer chose to combine delicate and refined pieces with materials such as wood and wool. “The seemingly aged woodwork plays beautifully with the gilt mirrors and burnished brass arch”, explains Erica Colpitts. “The result is a mixture of unexpected materials working seamlessly together”. The mezzanine acts as a separate room, allowing for a more exclusive experience. This space is dominated by darker colours combined with carved wood, marble tables and some bronze details.

Taking advantage of the natural light that invades the space in the summer months, Erica chose the colour green as the basis of the project - in different variations, this tone can be seen in the panels applied along one of the restaurant's walls, in the sofas' upholstery and in the velvet curtains that give the mezzanine some privacy. The colour of the wood was also carefully chosen by the designer. I wanted the wood to have a faded quality that could seemingly only come from age — something soft and worn, but not roughly weathered”.

Despite the dramatic and impressive décor, The Watson conveys a sense of comfort and tranquillity. It is a place to celebrate a typical Tuesday just as much as a special occasion.