Stokes Architecture + Design has been leaving its mark on Philly's culinary scene for over two decades. With 25 years under its belt, the firm has partnered with some of the city's most celebrated establishments, including Michelin-star-winning restaurants like Friday Saturday Sunday and Provenance, as well as Stephen Starr's iconic eateries.
At the heart of Stokes' success lies its approach to design, which director Lance Saunders describes as "theatrical" in nature. This means transforming clients' visions into immersive experiences that engage visitors on multiple levels – what they touch, see, feel, and interact with. Collaboration is key, with Saunders explaining that his team works closely with clients to ensure their unique story is told through the design.
A prime example of this approach can be seen in Borromini, Starr's newest Rittenhouse restaurant. Inspired by traditional Roman trattorias, the space incorporates vaulted ceilings and intricate murals into its historic Alison building façade, injecting drama and character into what was once a lackluster area. This emphasis on storytelling allows Stokes to elevate even the most mundane spaces into something special.
The firm's involvement in refurbishing Friday Saturday Sunday and its Lovers Bar showcased another facet of their design philosophy – taking an existing space and honing it through careful attention to detail, layout, and aesthetic. In this case, they aimed to harmonize a colonial-meets-Hollywood-regency style with the owners' originality by introducing upgrades in lighting, fluidity, and interior design.
Forbes has recognized Stokes as one of America's Top Hospitality Architects and Designers, solidifying its reputation for innovative storytelling through design. With a diverse portfolio that spans everything from cafes to hotels, office buildings, and even amusement park signage, the firm stands out with its unique approach to crafting immersive experiences.
As Philadelphia gears up for its 250th anniversary celebrations next year, Saunders hopes this national recognition can help showcase the city's scrappy sense of creativity – which has earned it a reputation for producing restaurants that are not just great but also uniquely Philadelphia. Currently working on Banshee, a new bistro opening in Tio Flores' former location, Stokes is poised to further cement its status as a driving force behind Philly's culinary scene.
At the heart of Stokes' success lies its approach to design, which director Lance Saunders describes as "theatrical" in nature. This means transforming clients' visions into immersive experiences that engage visitors on multiple levels – what they touch, see, feel, and interact with. Collaboration is key, with Saunders explaining that his team works closely with clients to ensure their unique story is told through the design.
A prime example of this approach can be seen in Borromini, Starr's newest Rittenhouse restaurant. Inspired by traditional Roman trattorias, the space incorporates vaulted ceilings and intricate murals into its historic Alison building façade, injecting drama and character into what was once a lackluster area. This emphasis on storytelling allows Stokes to elevate even the most mundane spaces into something special.
The firm's involvement in refurbishing Friday Saturday Sunday and its Lovers Bar showcased another facet of their design philosophy – taking an existing space and honing it through careful attention to detail, layout, and aesthetic. In this case, they aimed to harmonize a colonial-meets-Hollywood-regency style with the owners' originality by introducing upgrades in lighting, fluidity, and interior design.
Forbes has recognized Stokes as one of America's Top Hospitality Architects and Designers, solidifying its reputation for innovative storytelling through design. With a diverse portfolio that spans everything from cafes to hotels, office buildings, and even amusement park signage, the firm stands out with its unique approach to crafting immersive experiences.
As Philadelphia gears up for its 250th anniversary celebrations next year, Saunders hopes this national recognition can help showcase the city's scrappy sense of creativity – which has earned it a reputation for producing restaurants that are not just great but also uniquely Philadelphia. Currently working on Banshee, a new bistro opening in Tio Flores' former location, Stokes is poised to further cement its status as a driving force behind Philly's culinary scene.
. I mean, who wouldn't want to be transported to another world through the food and atmosphere? It's all about storytelling, right? 
I've always believed that our surroundings can greatly impact our mood and experiences. I'm excited to see what they have in store for Banshee – Tio Flores' former location is a bit of an underrated gem 
. And can we talk about the attention to detail they bring to each space? It's truly heartening to see how design can elevate even the most mundane areas into something special 
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! It's not just about throwing together some sick designs and calling it a day - they genuinely care about telling each space's story. Borromini's Roman-inspired vibes and Friday Saturday Sunday's colonial-meets-Hollywood-regency fusion are straight fire 
. What I love is how they take an existing space and just, like, breathe new life into it. It's not just about making something look pretty - it's about creating a real experience that draws you in. I'm hyped to see what they do next with Banshee, too!
. I mean, who doesn't love walkin' into some sickly lit restaurant and feelin' like they're part of somethin' special? They got this whole theatrical thing goin' on, where they transform spaces from lackluster to drama-filled, and it's no wonder they've partnered up with all these big-time restaurants. I'm hyped to see what they do next, especially that new Banshee spot 
I'm loving the way Stokes Architecture + Design is elevating spaces in Philly! Their "theatrical" design approach is all about storytelling and creating immersive experiences 
. I mean, have you seen Borromini? It's like stepping into a traditional Roman trattoria, but with a modern twist 
. And the way they refurbished Friday Saturday Sunday's Lovers Bar? 
So much attention to detail! They're not just about throwing some fancy lights and decor in there... it's all about creating a unique vibe that feels like an extension of the owners' personality 
. As one of America's Top Hospitality Architects and Designers, they're definitely crushing it 
. Can't wait to see what they do next for Banshee! 
. And let's be real, who wouldn't want to dine in a spot that feels like a traditional Roman trattoria? 
Their attention to detail and commitment to honoring the space's history is truly inspiring 
! As someone who's all about supporting local businesses, I'm stoked to see Stokes continuing to make waves & push the boundaries of hospitality design 
. It's always the same formula - some company gets an award, and then they just regurgitate their own press release in boring old paragraphs. Where's the personality? The human touch? I mean, Stokes Architecture + Design is all well and good, but can't they just give me a straight answer without making it sound like they're reading from a script 
but i love how stokes architecture & design brings old spaces back to life like that old alison building borromini restaurant... it's like they're taking all the boring parts and making them interesting again 
. also can't wait to check out banshee when it opens up 
. They've got this great approach to storytelling through design that makes each place unique, even if the original space was kinda boring before 
it's been havin a food revolution 4eva 
i mean, philly's got a rep for bein rough around da edges but stokes is showin us dat's what makes it so beautiful 
they're all about takin the ugly outta old spaces and turnin them into somethin special 
they just get better and better! 
️ stokes definitely knows what they're doing when it comes to bringing out the best in a space. 
this recognition from forbes is well-deserved, but honestly, i think stokes would've gotten here sooner 
. I'm so hyped for Banshee, Tio Flores' former spot, and what Stokes has in store for it