Perched 2,020 m above sea level on the edge of Mt Ruapehu, Knoll Ridge Chalet is New Zealand’s highest dining experience. Accessible by gondola and overlooking breathtaking views of the “Pinnacles”, the award-winning restaurant, designed by Jess Interiors, boasts natural timber and warm finishes that is juxtaposed to the surrounding environment.
The Babar chair, designed by Gonçalo Campos, is featured heavily inside the eatery. With natural beech frame and upholstered in a warm leather, the Babar is paired alongside slatted timber banquette seating with built-in planters.
Bonus track: Bringing an eatery to life on top of a frozen mountain is always a challenge. The harsh remote environment, rapidly changing weather and limited road access meant the project required extensive logistical programming to ensure safe delivery and placement. The fitting team used a helicopter to carry loads of furniture to the top of Mt Ruapehu and install it into the restaurant.
