North of Brooklyn recently opened it’s 7th location on Avenue Road in Toronto’s York neighborhood. The design is a contemporary reimagination of a classic New York pizza parlor. Balancing nostalgia and modernity, the interior captures the essence of the past while embracing present design sensibilities. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a custom patterned mosaic adorning the floor, skillfully crafted to evoke memories of artisanal workmanship. The light box ceiling subtly delineates the circulation space, guiding visitors to the ordering counter with ease.
The dining room exudes a comfortable ambiance, with painted warm white tongue and groove boards elegantly adorning the walls and ceiling. This tasteful addition blends rustic elements with a touch of sophistication, striking a balance between tradition and contemporary aesthetics. A series of photos of some NYC classic pizzeria’s cover the walls including Di Fara, Paulie Gee’s, and Best Pizza. At the heart of the space, a large farmhouse table beckons groups to gather and share in a convivial atmosphere. Pendant lights by Marset expertly illuminate the fixed dining tables, creating a warm and intimate setting. A well-curated wall of shelves proudly showcases gourmet goods, branded merchandise, and pizza-related delights. This thoughtful feature activates the circulation area, captivating guests with a visual feast of enticing offerings as they make their way to the counter.
Originally consisting of two separate commercial units, the wide space now accommodates two busy pizza lines in the kitchen, designed to meet the high demand. Outside, the façade underwent a notable transformation, featuring light brick, wooden windows, and a gracefully curving blue ceramic tile.
This contemporary interpretation of a New York pizza parlor captures the essence of both heritage and modernity. With meticulous attention to detail and a balanced design approach, it offers an immersive experience where patrons can indulge in the delights of exceptional pizza while appreciating the space's timeless charm.
Team:
Architect: MRDK
Architect Of Record: Architecture for All – Rikka Pappa
Photography Credit: David Dworkind
Construction Credit: Carbon build
Material Used:
1. Brick – Vande Moortel
2. Floor tile – Daltile
3. Wall tile – Rammacieri Soligo
4. Decorative lighting – Artemide, Marset, Arancia
5. Leather – CTL leather
6. Chairs – Suite 22: Thon
