This was a remodel project for an existing restaurant establishment. Our client desired something “joyful and laid back” as he thought the existing ambiance was a bit  austere, dark and pretentious. In addition to being excited about this challenge, we were equally inspired by Paola Carosella, restaurant owner and chef, whose personality was extroverted, restless, lively and goal driven.

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Overall, the two most challenging aspect of the project were to go through the project without having to temporarily close the restaurant and dealing with a limited budget.

In terms of design, there was a complete fusion between landscape and architecture, as they were physically overlayed in a few ambiances. Over the existing blank facade we installed a steel tube grid meant to be tangled in vines that referenced back to the existing volumes and voids in a very simple and harmonious way.

This same overlay was repeated on the narrow garden-like seating area, unifying internal and external solutions. This subtle touch of green was able to lighten and cheer up the new looking restaurant. On the inside, we removed the dark wood cladding, exposing the white walls and installed large mirror panes; we replaced the upholstery for a colorful fabric with an exuberant pattern and replaced the chairs for light and transparent wicker chairs.

The restaurant and waiting/bar area were equally considered. In the waiting area, we included armchairs and individual tables in a laid back and distinct environment. 

We focused on a conscious and responsible approach, with no waste or rubble while trying not to disrupt the restaurant’s routine: we also intended on delivering pleasant aesthetics and practicality.