We live for the opportunity to showcase our expertise in unique settings, creating floors that are not only high functioning but are also crafted to meet the unique aesthetic vision of our clients. When Chef Daniel Lindley approached us to create flooring for his newest restaurant concept 2nd American we were thrilled to implement his vision and get to work!

Tackling the Challenges of a Historic Space

The 1,590 square foot restaurant and its 282 linear foot perimeter presented significant structural challenges. The building’s age had left it’s mark, with holes spanning 2 to 4 feet wide and concrete floors uneven by as much as 2 inches over a 5 foot span. The imperfections required careful preparation and expert restoration to ensure a solid foundation.

We started grinding the surface with diamond tooling to expose all of the pores in the concrete, achieving the optimal level of surface profile for proper lamination at CSP levels 3-5. Each and every flaw of the slab was meticulously filled with rigid polyurea to provide a stable base ready to be challenged by the demands of a high-traffic, high-performance kitchen.

Designing a Floor for Performance and Perfection

Chef Lindley’s expectations were as high as the culinary standards he sets for his team. The floor had to sustain extremely high demands such as extreme temperatures, chemicals, fats, and sugars - but also pair well with the restaurant’s refined aesthetic.

We installed a 6-step resinous quartz sand system with an integral cove base that seamlessly transitioned 4 inches up the wall to prevent the accumulation of water or debris. The selected finish, Torginol Quartz’s Black Granite, provided a polished and professional look while keeping durability and functionality intact.

Our multi-layer system consisted of:

Sika 31NA Urethane Cement for a strong, durable base.

PolyKoat 250HP with Quartz Sand Broadcast for slip resistance and texture (two layers).

PolyKoat 250HP Grout Coat for smoothness and cleanability.

PolyKoat 6000WB Urethane Topcoat for a glossy, high-sheen finish that reflects light and elevates the space's aesthetic.

A Floor Built for Legacy

Despite the challenges posed by the historic structure, we completed the project August 21, 2024. The kitchen floor was installed in a perfect balance between form and function, equipped with a spill-and-stain resistant surface, impervious to wear, and easy to maintain, combined with the polished Black Granite finish, reflecting the sophistication of Lindley's vision. The result is a floor as refined as the dining experience that Chef Lindley offers. From the integral cove base to the high-gloss sheen, every detail was conceived to support his team's culinary artistry and create a welcoming, functional space.