PizzaExpress

Feeding Conversation:
Floating Canopies Enhance Social Dining at PizzaExpress 

PizzaExpress aimed to reduce restaurant noise, creating a more relaxed atmosphere for "good conversations" in their "Living Lab" concept. Low ceilings and the need to conceal services presented design challenges. 

Eighty circular MINERAL Sonic Element canopies were installed, mirroring table and pizza shapes for visual cohesion. These sound-absorbing canopies, printed in bespoke pastel colours, reduced reverberation by 50%. Their robust frames allowed integrated lighting and speakers. Installed at varying angles, they disguised services and enhanced the ceiling design. Acoustic domes further improved conversation zones. 

The canopies successfully created a more peaceful and social dining environment, aligning with PizzaExpress's goal to "feed great conversations." The project demonstrates the impact of integrated acoustic and visual design in enhancing the restaurant experience.