Niagara Falls.
Amid the pandemic, plans for the Niagara Falls Welcome Center was pressing forward, determined to stay on course despite the challenges. I was brought onto the project after the initial architectural concepts for “The Taste of Niagara” and “Top of The Falls” fell short of executive expectations. My redesign introduced a refined, contemporary vision for the quick-service restaurants—one that seamlessly balanced modern aesthetics with operational efficiency and ultimately earned the full approval of the executive team
Taste of niagara
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The plan
The Niagara Welcome Center’s QSR began with a local architectural concept, but the design ultimately fell short of the client’s vision. I was brought in to recalibrate the project, working closely with the architects, operations team, and client to reimagine the space while keeping it firmly rooted in its commercial purpose. Through refined floor plans and renderings, I helped realign the concept and guide all stakeholders toward a cohesive, elevated direction.
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Renderings
Leveraging SketchUp and Enscape to produce rapid visual options proved essential in securing swift approvals from the executive team.
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The Entrance.
The client wanted “The Taste of Niagara” logo to take center stage and ensure intuitive navigation. Our solution showcased the identity in two complementary formats—dynamic digital signage and refined pin-mounted lettering.
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The Sigange
Signage was a top priority for the Niagara Falls project. To support non-English-speaking visitors, guide guests toward the self-checkout kiosks, and create a bright, streamlined environment, we used color, lighting, and materiality to clearly define and differentiate key zones throughout the space.
Top of The Falls
Revitalizing a legacy restaurant
Circa 2002…
Top of the Falls stands as the only full-service restaurant within Niagara Falls—a space whose origins trace back to a former souvenir shop, later converted into a dining venue in 2002. By 2022, both Delaware North and Niagara Falls sought a thoughtful refresh, aiming to elevate the experience while maintaining a mindful approach to cost.
Minimal edits for
a large impact.
The brief for Top of The Falls was clear: refresh the space with a contemporary sensibility—without a contemporary budget. By collaborating closely with the operators and key vendors, I leaned into the venue’s existing midcentury bones, amplifying those details and introducing furnishings that subtly echoed and elevated the original aesthetic.
