Leon, Spitalfield Market

Project Outline:

We undertook the ambitious task of designing this modern and relaxing lighting environment. Working very closely with our client, and indeed their designers we have created a look and feel that really is a hit with the customers.

Spitalfield is a vibrant and exciting area that is incredibly popular with Londoners, with a reputation for being “hip and funky”, this new addition to the area certainly embraces the feeling with a lighting design that changes with the weather, the mood or indeed the time of day every occasion is catered for.

Synecore undertook the entire electrical design and installation from lighting and security to the internet and till operations. The project was handed over on time and within budget to a client that was delighted with entire team.

Ian Hunt is Operations Manager, in charge of opening new sites for Leon restaurants.

Leon is a restaurant concept offering fast food that isn’t bad food.

What is the concept behind the Leon restaurants?
We wanted to get away from the idea that all fast food is unhealthy consisting of burgers and chips. Therefore we have developed a restaurant concept that provides inexpensive, healthy fast food with the emphasis being on healthy cooking but at a fast pace. At lunch time we have a fast food style counter service and then a table service in the evenings. Some of the ingredients we use are organic, we use fair trade coffee and many items are Low GI, gluten free and vegetarian friendly.

When did you first start working with Synecore?
We were on our third opening at Brompton Road when we awarded Synecore with their first contract and since then we have completed Spitalfield Market, Strand and Regent Street; so basically we have worked with them on every new opening since that initial project.

You must be pleased with the Synecore do for you then?
Yes – we have been delighted with the work carried out by Synecore, they are a very professional company to work with, hence the number of projects they have worked on for us. They have a very skilled team and we know they will work closely with us to achieve the objectives. For us the thing that makes Synecore stand out is the way in which they understand exactly what it is we are trying to achieve; they support us as a partner and not just a supplier. Nothing is too much trouble for them, in fact on the last few sites we have asked them to convert used Gherkin tins into lamp shades and this has been done without question.

What does the electrical work consist of?
Synecore carry out all our electrical requirements which include all our internal electrical supplies, including CCTV, catering HVAC, security and emergency lighting. They also work on all our back and front of house decorative lighting. Due to the uniqueness of the Leon concept it is vital to get the right look and feel as it helps create the right atmosphere.

Did you experience any problems during any of the projects?
As with any project you always come across the odd issue and Leon is a developing brand so quite often changes occur during the build. However these have never been a problem for Synecore; they have always managed to adhere to them and importantly hand over on time and to budget.

Do you go back to the market when looking at new restaurants?
We have developed such a strong relationship with Synecore now that we just go straight to them and I have always enjoyed working with Paul Thomas and his team. They have consistently aided us without question and I currently see no reason and have never thought to get any other companies to quote for Leon’s electrical work.

What are your plans going forward then?
We are currently working at Viller Street and Cannon Street and we have developments confirmed at Bank Street, St Pancreas and Bristol with many more in the pipeline.

And you will be working with Synecore on these projects?
Yes – definitely, we have built up a strong relationship with Synecore now through working together and as a developing brand this is crucial for us. I foresee a long and fruitful relationship with Synecore.