Paris Steak

Luke Cleland

• Designers

The design brief for this intimate Parisian-inspired steakhouse in Liberty Village was to craft a restaurant that felt like Paris meets Toronto. Sansa Interiors brought this vision to life by creating a space where the design story unfolds from the moment guests walk through the door. Rooted in the romantic charm of classic French architecture, the aesthetic is thoughtful and understated, yet boldly cinematic. The result is an immersive dining experience where every element is intentionally layered, contributing to a cohesive and emotionally resonant atmosphere.

photo_credit Luke Cleland — Luke Cleland

With a narrow footprint and two distinct levels, the layout posed an immediate challenge: how to develop a strategic fl oor plan that delivers operational effi ciency without compromising guest experience. Ventilation and stacking solutions were introduced to optimize vertical space, the front-of-house (FOH) area was mapped to maximize natural movement—from entry to seating to service—without overcrowding or interruption, and Sansa Interiors collaborated closely with the food-service consultant and clients to position equipment with minimal overlap and maximum functionality in the back-of-house (BOH). The original space presented additional constraints, including low ceilings, uneven fl oors, and outdated mechanical systems. To maintain ceiling height and preserve aesthetic integrity, lighting and HVAC systems were seamlessly integrated into custom millwork and architectural detailing.

Material sourcing posed another challenge; to keep the timeline on track, Sansa Interiors navigated shipping delays by proposing interim alternatives that allowed the design process to evolve in tandem with the procurement process. To design a lighting scheme that worked with the design, careful consideration was given to avoid glare on refl ective surfaces throughout the restaurant. By incorporating soft, versatile, and thoughtfully layered lighting, the space’s personality is accentuated without hindering visual comfort for guests.

The overall palette and materiality play a pivotal role in defi ning the space’s mood. Rich textures, moody tones, and layered detailing were used to create warmth and depth. A colour-drenched scheme of charcoal grey, burgundy red, deep wood, and warm metallics evokes the romance of a French bistro, with the cinematic allure of fi lm noir. Subtle gold accents tie the space together, while details like red slatted tiles, locally sourced stone, metal accents, and wood paneling ground the design in authenticity.

Durability was a key consideration throughout the material selection process. High-performance fi nishes were chosen for solid surfaces, upholstery, and wall coverings to ensure long-term resilience in this high-traffi c hospitality setting. Paris Steak is a testament to the idea that sustainability and luxury are not mutually exclusive, offering a dining experience that is built to endure, both in style and in substance.