SM+P was hired to transform a 6,300 square foot restaurant space at National Harbor’s prime Waterfront Street corner into the Walrus Oyster + Alehouse. The previous restaurant had failed to take full advantage of its water view location — SM+P’s first move was to relocate and enlarge the main bar on-axis with the main entrance, freeing up water views from all dining spaces. Natural materials and a light colour palette freshen the interior; custom freestanding steel and wood shelving walls define distinct spaces while maintaining an open feel. A window facing the water was replaced with garage doors opening to an expanded outdoor deck.