Redefining the Burger: ARCHJS Crafts Upscale Johnny Rockets in Kuwait

Snapshot: Can you believe that Johnny Rockets, America's classic diner establishment, looks like this abroad? You might recognize some familiarities with the 1950’s themed diners other locations, but Kuwait-based architecture firm ARCHJS revamped the restaurant into an upscale urban setting for the newest addition to the brand.

While you might be familiar with the restaurant chains other 50’s-esque locations, ARCHJS, led by architect and founder Jassim Alshehab, decided that the Johnny Rockets in the Devonne Complex in Kuwait would take a step in a more contemporary direction. Of course, it still has the atmosphere of the brand, making full use of the chrome, white and velvet palette, but completely changed it into a modernized –almost space age-- environment.

Adapting to the Kuwait’s urban setting, the store utilizes custom-made perforated stainless steel sheets. The chrome plated walls can’t help but remind you of the juke boxes that you can find at other Johnny Rockets.  The iconic logo is etched in the back wall, artfully displaying the fact that the diner has evolved.

The overhanging bulkhead in the center of the diner adds curved, smooth elements that give off a sophisticated impression that adds to the industrialized feel present in the interior. Held together by chrome supports, it also serves as a source of gentle lightning that’s cleverly positioned to bounce across the silver walls as to reflect and stretch across the room. Given a trim that spells out all of the delicious menu options available, written out in the recognizable graphics of the brand, it tops off the bulkhead with a bright white light that completes the diner feel.

Both in a sense familiar and new, it’s exciting to see an interior you may have visited for a double cheese burger and milkshake more than a few times re-imagined into a modern, expertly designed interior.