Ipanema Grille

Cerminaro Construction completed a full interior and exterior design-build renovation for Ipanema Grille, delivering a comprehensive transformation that combined architectural redesign, structural upgrades, and construction under a single, integrated team. The project leveraged Cerminaro’s in-house design-build capabilities, with project managers experienced in architectural design, structural engineering, and construction execution.

The scope included a modern exterior facelift that significantly enhanced curb appeal, a complete reconfiguration of the dining room layout, buffet area, and waiter’s station, and the creation of a new grand vestibule entrance to improve both circulation and first impression. These areas required careful sequencing and coordination across multiple trades to accommodate dense food-service infrastructure, ensuring proper clearances, utility routing, and long-term serviceability while maintaining a clean, efficient layout.

A major architectural change involved removing the existing drop ceiling and raising the ceiling height by approximately 12 feet, creating a dramatic, open dining space. The project also presented unique structural challenges, including charred wood framing discovered above the ceiling from a long-past fire that had never been properly remediated. These conditions required careful evaluation, corrective structural work, and thoughtful integration into the new design without compromising schedule or budget.

Cerminaro’s design-build approach allowed for efficient problem solving, value engineering, and informed material selection throughout the project. The result is a fully reimagined restaurant space that aligns with the client’s vision, improves functionality, and delivers a durable, high-quality renovation through a coordinated and cost-effective process.