Interior Design

Wellgate Food Court

Brief
Wellgate Shopping Centre in Dundee city centre, accommodates over sixty retail units with a food court located on the top floor.  Keppie were commissioned by Prupim, the centre owners, to develop a fresh scheme for the food court with an increased number of covers.
Response

It was very clear to Keppie that due to its location there was an uncertainty as to the location of the food court within the centre. Making the space more prominent and identifiable had to be the main objective. Our early work looked at how this could be achieved whilst utilising light, animated graphics and a new identity within directories and wayfinding signage.

Keppie Interior Design re-planned the space taking function, order and management as key issues.  We aimed to increase covers and utilise furniture variety to create distinct zones with varying levels of comfort and style.  Lighting improvements were made to highlight circulation routes and create a soft atmospheric light over the tables.
Outcome

The zoned approach created choice for a variety of users, along with comfort and practicality.  A statement palette of colours and textures was introduced; natural hues with a strong accent to give the food court an identity.  To encourage users from other levels, we utilised visual aids, such as AV installation, prominent pendant lighting, seating positioned along the balustrade line and strong textures on column claddings which adjoin other levels. 

The centre has now successfully captured a number of new tenants and operationally works better for both retailer and customer. We are pleased with our contribution to changing a rather desolate space into a busy, animated one in which customers appear comfortable spending time.

Team