Project description
Location: | Budapest |
Designer: | Storiz Studio |
Lighting designer: | Bruno Somerville |
Project manager: | Bruno Somerville |
Photos: | Norbert Juhász |
Year: | 2025 |
The interior of the Mattarello restaurant was redesigned by Storiz Studio, transforming a former dining venue into a contemporary, multi-functional space. The concept centered on integrating three distinct functions: the restaurant, the bakery (“grab & go”), and the show bakery – the so-called “aquarium” – positioned between the two. The challenge was to accommodate these diverse functional requirements while creating a clear, fluid, and welcoming atmosphere.
The material palette unfolds through a subtle gradient: surfaces farther from the guest areas remain raw and material-focused, while those closer to the guests become increasingly refined, sophisticated, and warm. At the heart of this gradient stands the glass-walled show bakery, where laboratory-like precision offers a striking visual experience from the bakery.
Respect for the building’s original character played an important role as well: the removal of plaster revealed brick vaults and wall fragments, which now contrast harmoniously with limewashed surfaces and warm-toned wooden cladding. Site-specific artworks by Boldizsár Senteski further enhance the interior, visually linking the three functional zones and adding an additional layer of refinement.
The lighting design is credited to Somerville Bruno, who highlighted the greatest challenge as balancing the atmospheric lighting of the restaurant with the functional requirements of the grab & go area. “Striking the right balance between the two spaces was the most important task, ensuring that functionality and ambiance could coexist without compromise,” he noted. Special attention was also given to emphasizing the transparent character of the “aquarium”, as well as accentuating the artistic installation at the restaurant’s entrance through carefully designed lighting.
Solinfo Group is proud to have contributed to the creation of this unique and atmospheric interior with its lighting design and luminaires. Carefully planned lighting not only highlights the rich materiality and distinctive architectural features, but also establishes a balance between raw and refined surfaces, elevating the overall guest experience.