MorrisCo Design

Headed up by Alexandra Morris, MorrisCo Design was established in 2008. Alexandra was born into a family of restauranteurs, so it is not surprising that the consultancy is especially known for their work in the hospitality sector. She has applied her passion for food and wine into the numerous restaurants and cafés she has designed, though the consultancy has also designed a number of retail concepts.

Our favourite project is for gourmet butcher and homewares store, 1888 Certified, which with its fine food and retail offer, transcends both sectors. The agricultural vernacular with the use of recycled timber and cobbled flooring gives credibility to the brand’s sustainable and ethical ‘field to fork’ ethos, and their selection of homewares further endorses this. While the letterbox apertures in the grey brick walls at the back of the store, allow clear views into the prep rooms, enabling customers to see the craft of their butchering skills.

Like the client, their concept for Four Frogs, doesn’t take itself too seriously. The crêperie which was founded by four French friends, features references to their homeland, without being too overt. The result is an open and welcoming restaurant and take away service.

Working with independents and smaller chains in their home market, MorrisCo Design has also completed hospitality projects for Tap, Espresso and Vine & Grind as well as retail projects for a number of bookstores, opticians, florists and health and beauty brands.

With each of their concepts there is a thoughtful sensitivity to the use of materials, never wanting to appear ersatz, their designs have a simple honesty that is refreshing to see. The clever use of graphics enhance the spaces, giving you a true sense of the brands’ character and the integrity of their offer.