Plans reveal more details about new food spot coming soon to Rushden Lakes
Afrikana is the latest brand to come to Rushden Lakes, and more details have emerged surrounding its signage, interior and overall design.
After Afrikana was confirmed to be coming soon by Rushden Lakes earlier this month, plans have been submitted for new signage on Unit L5 of the shopping complex’s West Terrace.
Included in the plans are details of the ‘terracotta and earth-toned design scheme’ which will include decorative blockwork, textured wall finishes, murals,
timber/walnut-effect joinery and warm LED illumination.
Outside on the terrace, plans show decorative blockwork and planters with integrated lighting sectioning off the restaurant from the public walkway.
A planning document reads: “The proposal seeks to maintain an inclusive customer experience through retention of the established entrance and lobby, an accessible WC shown on the existing and proposed plans, and a mixture of fixed and loose seating.
"Terrace tables, planters, menu displays and projecting elements will be be located so that wheelchair users and people with visual impairments can move safely along the public frontage. The operator will provide suitable seating choices and ensure service can be provided to customers unable to use any particular seating type.”
The brand is hoping to ‘make good’ of the existing shopfront formerly used by Chi before its closure was confirmed in May this year.
Afrikana will incorporate elements of the existing fixed seating but also include new upholstery, tables, loose furniture and decorative planting.
The planning document adds: “The scheme provides a coordinated refurbishment of an existing restaurant unit, combining retained building fabric with updated seating, finishes, signage and terrace detailing.
"Its design approach seeks to maintain the established building scale and customer entrance while improving the restaurant’s identity and hospitality environment.”
Afrikana Kitchen currently has 20 locations in the UK including in Birmingham, Leicester and several in London. The franchise-based brand specialises in grilled chicken, burgers, wraps and platters with an ‘African twist’, having opened its first outlet in November 2018.
The menu also includes African culinary staples such as plantains, jambalaya and Bunny Chow, the latter a popular South African dish.
The full plans can be found online here.