Designing a Fresh Perspective for Nando’s Mexican Café
With the addition of their fifth location in Maricopa, Nando’s Mexican Café was searching for a new image. Partnering with House of Form, the result of the refresh was a vibrant interior that blends Nando’s rich history with a fresh, modern vibe.
Nando’s Mexican Café has been a go-to spot for flavorful Mexican cuisine in Arizona for over a decade. But even the most cherished spaces can start to feel a bit dated. With the addition of their fifth location in Maricopa, Nando’s was searching for a new image. Enter House of Form — a concept-heavy interior design studio based in Phoenix, Arizona. The goal? A vibrant makeover that blends Nando’s rich history with a fresh, modern vibe that today’s diners will love.
Bright, Light and Full of Life
When House of Form began working on the Maricopa location, they were given a clear directive: make it bright, make it light. And they did just that. The design team reimagined the interior, transforming it into a space that’s open, airy, and bursting with energy. The result is a place where the warmth of Nando’s traditional roots meets a lively, modern aesthetic. It’s not just a facelift — it’s a full-on rejuvenation and setting a standard for future renovations of existing locations.
At the core of this project is a deep consideration for Nando’s roots. Closely involved throughout the refresh, the owners shared stories and insights about the brand’s journey. This close collaboration supported thoughtful design choices that helped build a visual story of Nando’s from the custom artwork on the walls to the handpicked furniture. The result is a space that doesn’t just look good but also feels intentional — like an authentic reflection of Nando’s past, present, and future.
Dala Al-Fuwaires of House of Form mentioned that the team had frequent interactions with the owners, gathering personal stories about how the brand was built — "we developed a friendship that made this project so much more intentional and special."
Where Tradition and Modernity Meet
One of the most captivating elements of the Maricopa location is the seamless fusion of traditional Mexican design with a modern Arizona twist. Take the tile work, for instance — inspired by classic Mexican patterns but executed with a contemporary flair that feels fresh and new. This theme carries over to the bar area, where a stylized Arizona desert landscape replaces what might have been a more literal depiction. Instead of the usual sunset photograph, guests are greeted with an oversized, modern penmanship drawing that sparks the imagination and adds to the fresh aesthetic.
Thoughtful Design with a Touch of Playfulness
House of Form didn’t just settle for a bright and lively space — they also infused the design with playful elements that make Nando’s Maricopa location truly one-of-a-kind. Neon signs, with their cheeky messages, guide guests through the space, adding a bit of whimsy to the experience. A standout detail is the neon wayfinding sign that reads “Baños,” complete with an arrow pointing down a long hallway to the restrooms. It’s a small touch, but it’s one that brings a smile and showcases the creativity and care behind every design decision.
Furniture That Compliments the Vision
The furniture at Nando’s Maricopa location perfectly complements the overall design, enhancing the light and lively atmosphere that House of Form aimed to create. The Leo chair was chosen, offering a blend of contemporary style and classic comfort that fits seamlessly into the refreshed interior.
Out on the patio, the Opla chairs bring a splash of color and character to the outdoor dining area. Arranged in a mix of vibrant hues, these chairs help create a fun and inviting space that’s as lively as the interior. And the best part? These were all standard color options from Grand Rapids Chair, proving that even subtle choices can have a significant impact when selected with intention.
"We didn't have to customize anything which was nice and and the colors were perfect. They were bright. They were exactly what we're looking for." said Dala Al-Fuwaires of House of Form.
Learn more about Grand Rapids Chair's standard colors and finish options.
Setting the Bar for Future Locations
The revitalization of Nando’s Mexican Café in Maricopa is more than just a facelift—it’s setting a new standard for the brand. This thoughtful blend of tradition and modernity is something you can expect to see echoed in other Nando’s locations as they undergo updates. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal, the Maricopa location offers an atmosphere that’s as welcoming and dynamic as the food itself. It’s a place where familiar favorites and new experiences come together, inviting you to relax, enjoy, and create new memories.
