Giulio Marchesi‘s design for Restaurant Abba in Milan transcends the conventional dining experience, crafting a fluid, interconnected space that blurs the lines between kitchen, dining room, and reception. Housed within a revitalized paintbrush factory, Abba stands as a demonstration of the harmonious dialogue between industrial heritage and contemporary architectural intervention. Marchesi’s vision, far from being a mere backdrop, actively participates in the culinary narrative, echoing the chef’s philosophy of seasonality, sustainability, and understated elegance.
The layout is a masterclass in spatial orchestration. A single, expansive volume eliminates traditional partitions, fostering an open, engaging atmosphere. The former factory’s northern wing, with its robust brick structure, now houses the kitchen, while the sleek, glass-and-steel extension accommodates the dining area. This strategic arrangement bathes the dining room in natural light, courtesy of the expansive windows, while the kitchen, nestled within the building’s core, retains its functional efficiency. Critically, the design allows diners to witness the culinary theatre unfolding, bridging the gap between chef and guest.
The reception, situated at street level, subtly descends, creating a distinct threshold. Here, a Vicenza Stone counter and a towering Oak volume define the space, acting as a functional backdrop for wardrobe and storage, while simultaneously framing the transition into the main dining area. Eight precisely positioned tables ensure both intimacy and a visual connection to the kitchen. Service functions are seamlessly integrated through strategically placed workstations, maintaining the space’s open flow.
The material palette, a symphony of natural textures, mirrors the chef’s culinary ethos. European Oak floors, light earthy-toned walls, and natural linen curtains create a warm, inviting canvas for the carefully curated furniture: Hans Wegner chairs and natural Oak tables. Accents of Vicenza Stone and Oak, thoughtfully integrated into functional volumes, further enhance the space’s tactile richness. The bespoke tableware, echoing the restaurant’s neutral tones, reinforces the cohesive aesthetic.
Natural light, a crucial design element, transforms the space throughout the day. The play of shadows and grazing light accentuates the textures of the Bianco Avorio Stone, the Oak floors, and the delicate brushstrokes of St.Leo Interiors’ paintings. As dusk descends, Davide Groppi’s bespoke lighting design takes center stage, orchestrating a dramatic shift in perception. Volumes recede into shadow, walls and curtains dissolve, and the focus shifts to the illuminated tabletops, the exquisite ceramics, and, most importantly, the vibrant colours of the dishes.
Abba, therefore, is more than a restaurant; it is a meticulously crafted environment where architecture and gastronomy converge. Marchesi’s design, with its thoughtful use of materials, light, and space, creates a domestic yet sophisticated atmosphere, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the chef’s culinary artistry. The restaurant stands as a testament to the power of simplicity, where the beauty of raw materials and the poetry of light create an unforgettable dining experience.