GBurger

The Gburger Westboro project is a careful reinvention of a well-loved neighbourhood fixture in Ottawa. Taking over the former John’s Diner, the new design preserves the site’s familiar character while introducing a refreshed identity that speaks to both memory and modernity. DS Studio approached the project as an act of continuity, treating design as a bridge between the past and the present.

Respect for the existing space guided every decision. Rather than removing what worked, DS Studio retained and refinished the original millwork, banquettes, and storefront. These familiar elements, paired with a subtle new colour palette and softened café curtains, maintain the warmth and accessibility that have always defined this address. The result is a space that feels renewed yet deeply connected to its community roots.

Inside, mirrored panels along the main banquette wall introduce a gentle sense of play. These antique mirrors invite casual interaction and layered views across the room, turning everyday dining into a social and visual experience. The intervention demonstrates how small design gestures can create meaningful moments of connection.

The material palette references the understated tradition of classic North American diners, interpreted through a contemporary lens. Wood paneling, mosaic flooring, and muted tones establish a calm, grounded atmosphere, while custom signage and lighting add precision and craft.

Gburger Westboro reflects DS Studio’s belief that Ottawa restaurant design can balance authenticity with innovation. By preserving the diner’s legacy and refining its details, the studio created a space that remains an enduring part of the community – welcoming, familiar, and thoughtfully designed for today.