Part restaurant, part décor shop, Hemelhuijs is the place to be seen in Cape Town this month. With on trend interiors and simple, fresh food, it’s a slice of style heaven. Owner and designer Jacques Erasmus gives us the lowdown on what goes into creating the perfect restaurant setting.

What do you think makes for a well-designed restaurant? When the food and the décor speak the same language.
Are the interiors and the food equally important? Both have an important role to play. With the interior, you set the stage for the food to shine – together, they should create a complete performance. It is important to give patrons a fresh new experience.  
What are some of design considerations, creative need to bear in mind? Designers must never lose sight of the fact that restaurants need to be functional – so often you see beautifully designed spaces that just don’t work on a practical level. For example, choosing the right chair – not only aesthetically but also ergonomically – is very important since guests spend most of their time seated.
How do you succeed in creating atmosphere? Décor, colour scheme and lighting play a great role but things like choosing the right music and good service go a long way to making your patrons feel comfortable.