Blake’s Lotaburger unveils new restaurant design

FARMINGTON — The Blake’s Lotaburger restaurant chain will unveil a new design with the opening of its 75th restaurant this month in Farmington.

The new design for the Albuquerque-based company will incorporate a more modern look while honoring its New Mexico heritage. Ron Rule, CEO/owner of Blake’s Lotaburger, said the company was looking to develop a more modern image with its locations.

“I think it’s a sign that we are investing as much in our interiors as our food,” said Lannie Rule-Ziemann, company director of media relations and Ron’s daughter.

Lucy Rosen, director of marketing, said an increase in demand for Blake’s Lotaburger has led the company to pursue the new design style to accommodate more customers.

The building differs from most Blake’s Lotaburger locations, focusing on a dining room that seats 58 people with booths, and tables and chairs.

It’s a dramatic difference from the older locations that feature a small indoor lobby and counter seating. The redesign was developed by Modulus Architects of Albuquerque and uses earth-tone colors, hanging lights and wall art in the interior to create an upscale look.

Elevated seating and tables line the walls of the dining room. Power outlets with USB ports have been installed at those tables to allow customers to charge their laptops or smartphones. “I feel like we’re just evolving with the times,” Rule-Ziemann said.