The Challenge

Capturing the romance of an old-world Italian courtyard within the scale of a modern, multi-zoned volume.

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Located in the exclusive Vida Hills, the challenge was to create a space that felt intimate and authentic despite significant site constraints and the high ceilings typical of Dubai. We needed to solve the "void" of a large footprint by creating a layered spatial strategy that mirrors the vibrancy and conviviality of an Italian piazza, balancing private sanctuary with social engagement.

Our Approach

A Layered Spatial Strategy & The Theatre of Craft.

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Our design transports guests to a Roman courtyard through a fusion of traditional aesthetics and modern functionality.

• The Mezzanine & Intimacy: To address post-pandemic shifts toward more private dining, we integrated a mezzanine lounge. This optimised the 8,945 sqft space without compromising the sense of intimacy, creating diverse seating zones from alfresco-style configurations to secluded booths.

• Operational Theatre (The Pizza Lift): Central to the storytelling is a custom-designed, exposed pizza lift. This innovation addresses a logistical challenge while serving as a theatrical focal point that invites guests into the kitchen's craft.

• Global Materiality: We curated a tactile palette of handmade terracotta tiles, textured concrete, and reclaimed wooden furniture. To elevate the exclusivity, we engaged in a global dialogue of craftsmanship, integrating South African ceramics, Turkish furniture, and Australian textiles.