Architect Eleftherios Ambatzis recently completed an Italian restaurant, in the island of Rhodes, Greece. Part of a large beachfront resort complex, the restaurant occupies a 380 sqm area and is located on the central piazza of the hotel, overlooking the large swimming pool and the beach. Contrary to the expected folkloric approach the design deconstructs the essence of Italy using discreet references. The visitor enters the space via a long corridor, "carpeted" with tiles depicting fusilli pasta, designed by the architect and hand crafted by local artisans. Four other pasta varieties are used to create rectangular "carpets" on the floor of the restaurant, a subtle tribute to Italy's national dish.
72 hand blown crystal spheres hang from the ceiling creating a visual link between interior space and the terrace, alluding to the celebrated craft of Venetian glass-making. Defined by partitions made from traditional Italian ceramic screen tiles the outdoor space is framed towards the pool and the piazza. A large cedar log was used to form the pizza-bar top, separating the sitting area from the open kitchen complete with a stainless-steel pizza oven.
The tables were designed for the space and boast tops from Carrara marble, possibly the most distinct of the Italian marbles. The long monastery tables are made from solid wood and rusted iron, encouraging visitors to sit beside one another, and enjoy eating the Mediterranean way. Blurring the boundaries between tradition and the contemporary lifestyle the space aims to create a vibe of tranquillity, a relaxed setting where food is enjoyed for its glorious simplicity and dinning becomes a multi-sensory experience.
