In Use - Project

ANIML, Toronto

Banquette seating in Bengal Tiger colour Whisky & Panthera colour Whisky, both by Catherine Martin by Mokum | Photograph by Britney Townsend

Banquette seating in Panthera colour Whisky by Catherine Martin by Mokum | Photograph by Britney Townsend

Panthera

Whisky

Catherine Martin by Mokum

A tucked-away treasure in a former loading dock in downtown Toronto, Charles Khabouth and INK Entertainment’s ANIML Steakhouse is an unexpectedly luxurious, playful experience.

Known for embracing storytelling, local design firm Nivek Remas were enlisted to transform the existing space into something both daring and inviting, that went beyond the predictably masculine steakhouse aesthetic.

“We approached ANIML with the goal of creating a unique world that felt indulgent, bold, and really fun. It wasn’t just about dining, but about creating a moment guests could step into,” says Samer Shaath of Nivek Remas. “We were tasked with balancing that sense of glamour with comfort, ensuring the space felt both intimate and magnetic, a place where guests could unwind, celebrate, and feel transported all at once.”

Composed of blush, oxblood, and gold, the palette is intentionally moody. “It’s a combination that feels timeless but indulgent, giving the entire space a glow that immediately envelopes you as you enter. These hues allowed us to build a visual language that feels both nostalgic and contemporary – a nod to the past with its own modern edge.”

"The fabric selections were critical in creating that layered sense of character, place, and luxury."

Samer Shaath

Banquette seating in Panthera colour Whisky by Catherine Martin by Mokum | Photographs by Britney Townsend

Panthera

Whisky

Catherine Martin by Mokum

Panthera

Whisky

Catherine Martin by Mokum

Evoking decadence and nostalgia, Catherine Martin by Mokum’s animal-inspired Panthera and Bengal Tiger velvets in Whisky, gold leaf ceilings, and high-gloss wood panelling evoke the atmosphere of New York’s iconic 1970s and 80s nightlife. Channelling the opulent and escapist Studio 54, ANIML is a maximalist yet curated space where every element contributes to building an immersive environment.

“The fabric selections were critical in creating that layered sense of character, place, and luxury. We leaned into tactile, high-impact materials – deep textured velvets and bold prints – because they inherently bring a sense of richness and sensuality to a space. We wanted guests to not just see the luxury but feel it – whether they’re sinking into a velvet banquette or running their hand across the arm of a chair upholstered in an animal-inspired textile.”

Testament to the power of trust and collaboration between client and designer, “what made this project so special is how it embraced its own sense of theatre. From the moment you enter, it feels like you’re part of something a little secret, a little decadent, and entirely unique to Toronto … ANIML isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience designed to linger long after the meal is over.”

Products used:

Panthera colour Whisky by Catherine Martin by Mokum

Bengal Tiger by Catherine Martin by Mokum

Interior Design: Nivek Remas

Photographer: Britney Townsend

Contractor: Impactt Construction Co.

Millworker: Spacewell Trading and Interiors Inc.

Cow: Christina Ott, I Love Crow

Fringe Lamps: Annie Legault