HapstakDemetriou+ designed this very creative space to be bright and comfortable

Designed by HapstakDemetriou+, “On Rye”, a contemporary sandwich shop has recently opened at 740 Sixth Street NW within walking distance of the Verizon Center in Washington, D.C.’s Chinatown neighborhood.

Founder Ilyse Fishman Lerner refined and trimmed down the counter-service favorites with inventive recipes and techniques, serving up these creations in a 2,550-square-foot, 60-seat space.

“We’re thrilled to open our permanent location, particularly given the great response we’ve had to our stand at Nationals Park,” said founder and first-time restaurant owner Ilyse Fishman Lerner. “Our goal is to change the perception of Jewish sandwiches and other deli items as ‘heavy, special occasion food’ to everyday fare that you can eat several times a week, while still maintaining a connection to the comfort and tradition of the cuisine.”

On Rye sources regularly from local producers and suppliers to bring a distinctly D.C. flavor to its offerings, including breads from Uptown Bakers of Hyattsville, Md., and Dolci Gelati’s vanilla bean gelato, which serves as the filling of its standout Babka ice cream sandwich.

The Design

“On Rye creates a bright and comfortable space with a largely black and white color palette,” stated Peter Hapstak, Founding Partner/Principal with HapstakDemetriou+. “Guests are drawn into the space outfitted with black steel and brass elements, tile inlays and polished concrete floors throughout,” he added.

Inlaid floor tile

“We merged the “casual dining” style seating that includes a community table and espresso counter in the front of the restaurant with traditional cafeteria dining in the back,” said Ayelet Oser, Project Designer with HapstakDemetriou+. “We then separated the space visually with a custom shelving element that wraps around the space displaying cookbooks, curated pantry goods and other bold sundries".

ABOUT hapstak Demetriou+

HapstakDemetriou+ is a creative and spirited architecture and design studio under the leadership of Olvia Demetriou, FAIA and Peter Hapstak III, AIA, two accomplished design professionals whose careers have long been celebrated for their innovation and timelessness. The studio benefits from a diversely talented and experienced group of architects and designers who produce striking and inventive design solutions. Known for designing a full array of project types and sizes, HapstakDemetriou+ takes clients ideas from conception to full realization. For additional information, visit www.hd-ad.com