Crafting a contemporary Nando’s with rhythm and warmth

ClientNando’s

Studio team Melbourne, AUS

Services Interior Design

Size89 covers 261m2

At Nando’s Woden, we started from scratch, not just building a store, but shaping a full guest journey from the ground up.

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From sculptural timber ceiling fins to handcrafted woven pendants, every detail at Nando’s Woden speaks to movement and materiality. Upholstered booth seating meets African-patterned tiles and graphic fabrics, echoing the warmth and rhythm of the brand’s cultural roots.

Layered textures and rich tones shape a warm, immersive dining environment. The curved leather booths, quilted upholstery, and woven pendants strike a balance between comfort and energy—inviting guests to linger, share, and return.

The brief was clear: create a high-capacity restaurant that doesn’t feel crowded. Our solution was a layout anchored by intuitive flow with the point of sale strategically positioned at the heart of the store, guiding guests naturally through the space.

To help define zones without compromising openness, we introduced a sculptural ceiling feature and a custom half-moon booth a bold yet fluid form that marks the transition from ordering to dining, without closing anything off.

The real challenge was balance: seating density versus comfort. Through considered planning and custom furniture design, we crafted a layout that maximises covers while still feeling generous and relaxed.

Every surface tells a story from bespoke tiles to layered timberwork and handcrafted finishes. Inspired by Nando’s iconic geometric patterns, these details bring rhythm, warmth, and a sense of place. The result? A dining environment that feels vibrant, inviting, and unmistakably Nando’s, contemporary in spirit, rooted in culture.

At Nando’s Woden, we wanted every move from the first step inside to sitting down to feel intuitive. Design shouldn’t get in the way; it should quietly guide you.

Natalie Fewster Interior Designer at Harrison

Key Features

A tactile mix of quilted leather, graphic woven textiles, and warm timber brings depth and personality to the dining experience. Every surface is chosen for its visual impact and durability—designed to perform while celebrating craftsmanship.

Layered textures and rich tones shape a warm, immersive dining environment. The curved leather booths, quilted upholstery, and woven pendants strike a balance between comfort and energy—inviting guests to linger, share, and return.

A tactile screen woven with colour and craft nods to Nando’s African heritage while defining intimate zones within the space. Every detail—from the custom tiling to sculptural pendants—is designed to delight, layer by layer.

Even the restrooms carry the brand’s bold spirit—patterned tiling, brass fixtures, and rounded mirrors offer a refined yet playful nod to Afro-modernism, where functionality meets elevated design.

very detail at Woden is design-led, including the self-serve counter. Bold timber inlays and geometric patterns express a handcrafted energy, while the shelving, tilework, and styling maintain a calm sense of order and rhythm.

A closer look at the crafted confidence of Woden’s joinery. Bold geometries, textured timbers, and layered shelving create a tactile backdrop that celebrates Nando’s eclectic spirit and attention to detail.

Every detail at Woden is considered. From mint-green laser-cut steel to bold geometric tiles and paprika-toned upholstery, the design balances craft with colour for a grounded yet playful dining moment.

A vibrant blend of craft and culture — the heart of Nando’s Woden comes alive through bold textures, layered lighting, and expressive detailing.

The custom service counter at Nando’s Woden features a mix of curved terrazzo surfaces, glazed terracotta tiles, and natural timber, all anchored by expressive African-inspired geometry overhead.

The Nando’s Woden interior design features a custom illuminated shelving display housing signature sauces, Rubro iced teas, and Afro-Portuguese condiments. Integrated planting and warm timber tones reflect Harrison’s approach to layered storytelling and immersive brand detail.

Detail shot of textured leather banquette seating and timber surfaces at Nando’s Woden. Harrison’s hospitality design showcases quality materials and tactile finishes that elevate the guest experience.

Intimate booth seating with warm-toned leather, artisan tile detailing, and custom furnishings at Nando’s Woden. Harrison’s interior design brings texture, comfort, and contemporary African-inspired craft to life.

Nando’s Woden interior design highlights artisanal detail with a merchandise display wall of Rubro drinks, house sauces, and curated art, set against textured tiles and bespoke geometric timberwork by Harrison.

Nando’s Woden restaurant design by Harrison blends bold South African colourways, geometric lighting installations, and warm timber finishes to create a dynamic and inviting dining atmosphere.