On Tuesday afternoon, designer Paul Filek of Burdifilek, an award-winning commercial interior design firm based in Toronto, hosted special guests at an intimate lunch at The Modern at the Museum of Modern Art in NYC.

Paul Filek

Throughout the four-course meal, Filek briefed guests, who included Alan Brake of The Architect's Newspaper and designer/blogger Vyna St. Phard, on the firm’s recent projects: a Mark Lash Fine Jewelry store, a Pink Tartan boutique in Toronto, and a Neiman Marcus on Long Island, which is slated to open in 2016.  

Alan Brake, Paul Filek, and Vyna St. Phard 

Primarily known for its mass market and luxury retail flagships, hotel designs, and residential real estate developments, Burdifilek’s scope of work is not limited to imagining interior design concepts and bringing them to life. The firm is also well versed in developing and enhancing retail strategy and visual identity for its clients, many of which are internationally recognized brands.

Nike store, designed by Burdifilek

Burdifilek’s notable retail projects in New York include Club Monaco and Joe Fresh’s New York City flagship in Fifth Avenue’s landmark “Crystal Lantern” building.

Joe Fresh flagship in New York City

When asked how his approach differs for a retail project versus a hospitality project, Filek explained, “We approach both with the end user in mind. A retail space exists to display product and facilitate product sales. The interior of a retail environment has to represent the brand and have a point of view, but ultimately it sits behind the product. It has to allow the merchandise to sing. A hospitality project differs in that the environment itself is in fact the product and must leave an impression on those who visit.”

The firm intends to open a satellite office in New York next year.

Article by Kate Jerde