- Outdoor & travel
Pearly Queen, the latest jewel in East London's vibrant culinary scene, is a masterpiece designed by the prestigious A-nrd Studio. Nestled in the heart of Shoreditch on Commercial Street, this fish and champagne bar is the brainchild of Michelin-starred chef Tom Brown.
A-nrd Studio's creative skills, inspired by the simple oyster, have transformed this eatery into a contemporary haven that harmoniously combines contrasting textures and hues reminiscent of an oyster shell and its prized pearls. Founder Alessio Nardi looks back on the project, saying, "It was fantastic to work with Tom Brown and his vision for Pearly Queen. Creating an interior that referenced the edginess of East London and at the same time New York's art deco-style oyster bars allowed us to experiment with contrasting textures, juxtaposing materials, furniture and fixtures, merging the rough with the smooth and the raw with the sophisticated to create a space that feels familiar, yet fresh and contemporary." A-nrd Studio, an award-winning London practice specialising in immersive interior design, has consistently demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of materiality, design languages and contemporary arts and crafts. 
Restaurant combines elevated elegance and refined details
The ground floor features a two-function cocktail bar and an open kitchen, giving the space a lively and theatrical element. The design is made of luxurious solid Italian terrazzo and features chestnut-clad leather bar chairs. It incorporates bespoke elements, including a back bar with mirrored glass, bronze-coloured brass and vintage oak panelling, as well as a raw steel wine portal. A large terrazzo counter table provides an excellent place to soak up the cosy atmosphere of Shoreditch. The lighting scheme, carefully curated by A-nrd Studio, plays a pivotal role in highlighting and illuminating the space. 
The decoration remains minimal, with artworks commissioned by chef Tom Brown and curated by Despina Watton of A-nrd Studio. Original paintings, ink drawings and portraits by contemporary British artist Poppy Ellis create an artistic tapestry in Pearly Queen. As you descend to the ground floor, the materials and colour palette take on a richer, atmospheric feel. An old, weathered oak parquet floor warms the exposed brick and limed walls. Custom-made seating in deep moss-green leather curves around the main space, creating intimate nooks, while antique mirrors and deco globe pendant lights work in harmony to reflect soft ambient light. 
A semi-private dining room, hidden behind a vaulted cavern, reveals a surprising glow of colour. Custom-made chairs in plush terracotta velvet with a bold ribbed velvet pattern, a curved mustard-coloured terrazzo table and pearl marble lighting create an inviting and luxurious space painted in deep teal. At Pearly Queen, an interior has been created that stands out in Shoreditch's fast-paced restaurant scene. It is a contemporary interpretation of a traditional oyster and champagne bar, seamlessly combining the intimacy of a local neighbourhood restaurant with elevated elegance and refined details.
Photography by Charlie McKay
Text by Elke Aerts