Hello!
I’m Nigel Witham. I design restaurants and other customer-facing spaces where flow, comfort and commercial results all matter. My first restaurant opened in 1990 and is still trading; since then I’ve led dozens of projects for cafés, bars, retail and restaurants, and I’ve shared what I’ve learned in trade magazines and talks.
My approach is evidence-led and practical: I work closely with owners and chefs, producing drawings, specifications and tender information, coordinating consultants and guiding the build. The aim is a room that works on day one and keeps working years later.
I’m passionate
I can only be successful if I help make your restaurant a success first. I’m as invested in your bar, café or restaurant as you are. I listen, measure, imagine, research, draw and coordinate—and I’m happy to mentor and coach throughout your project.
Who I work with
Restaurants are complicated businesses that demand attention to detail if they’re to become lasting assets. They can’t be built well in a crisis or on unrealistic budgets, so I collaborate best with realistic people who share those truths and want to be stand-out successes. I keep my practice small and personal, so I usually work by introduction. If we haven’t met, you’re still welcome to explore the free information—no strings attached.
If you’d like my help or have questions, I respond quickly to polite emails: nigel@nigelw.com
kind testimonials from people I've been privileged to work with
"Nigel cares about his work immensely and quickly identifies and agrees clearly with you as a client at your level/language, in respect of what is required of the project/objective and often delivers far more using his skills set, knowledge, diligence and contacts, having worked on my construction project Nigel delivered on time and under budget. Thank you."
"Superb, from start to finish. Approaches providing his design and project management services as being a strategic business partner. Always reliable and excellent service."
"I met Nigel during his first visit to Dubai in 2008. Since then I have made a point to meet him for lunch or coffee whenever he has returned. Not only is he a fabulous designer and writer, who has lots of enraptured fans in this region, but he is always open and interesting company."
"Nigel is passionate about design - great design! He is very professional, easy to work with, and committed to getting things right for his clients. He is generous with his time and highly supportive - ask him about "Building the Happiness - Centred Business" you will be pleased you did!"
"I have used Nigel and his team to help me on several projects where they used their considerable design skills and CAD flair to help me with the design and presentation of major architectural projects. As a busy and successful architect I find that my services are often in demand, and that my clients look for the best possible service. I have been delighted to find Nigel living locally, but working internationally, and to build up trust with his expertise. I have no hesitation in recommending Nigel for his attention to detail is meticulous and his designs have flair and energy, while at the same time being rooted to the best possible commercial outcomes for his clients."