A taste for transparency

A clear, decisive design signature underpins this judicious combination of practicality and transparency. Designed by Michele Caputo, the Angolo Divino restaurant in Gioia del Colle, in the Italian province of Bari, is the result of an unusual remodelling project. The architect, who hails from the Puglia region himself, rose to the challenge set by the client, of designing an environment -within the limited space of the existing building – that not only looked new in terms of its styling, but also offered something new in terms of its concept. Because this particular restaurant-pizzeria has a dual spirit, with a restaurant at one end and a fast-food area at the other. Given the limited availability of space and the inflexibility of its structure, the idea of creating a central, transparent showcase kitchen proved to be a winning solution, and forms the centrepiece of the design. The transparency of the glass showcase extends the visual perspective, gives customers the pleasure of an intimate view of what’s going on behind the scenes, and offers a clear guarantee of quality, in addition to its symbolic value. Visible from the entrance and equipped with a pizza-making area, worktop, washing area and cooking line, the kitchen is tailored to fit the 25 m2 of available space without compromising any other functions or the workflows to and from the other two areas of the venue. The first of these is the ‘fast-food’ section, which stands nearest the entrance and also measures 25 m2. It includes a cured meats counter, which is clad in the same material as the kitchen, to enhance the visual perception of the corner it slots into. The other side of this area is furnished with a counter and high stools for fast-food customers, while an aisle along the kitchen leads to the other area, measuring 35 m2 and accommodating 30 to 40 customers. The interior design and furnishing derives from « the need for a lean, understated approach that avoids overloading the limited space, » explains the architect, Michele Caputo. So a seamless harmony of uncluttered lines and simple materials creates a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere. The display systems, behind-the-counter area and wall-mounted wine showcase are made of anthracite-coloured metal, and use slimline profiles to lighten the visual impact of the walls, while enhancing the effect of the exchange between solids and voids. The same colour and slimline metal frames are then reprised in the seating of the two rooms, giving rise to another harmonious dialogue. By way of contrast, meanwhile, the wood-effect laminate coverings of the counter, kitchen, benches and tables, comes in two different shades, one light and one dark. For an extra touch of elegance, the architect opted for the Unika series of 60×60 cm edge-ground wall tiles by ABK, with Freedom accents. The through-body porcelain tile blends traces of antique stone with hints of worn concrete, in a layered texture that evokes the passage of time and brings to mind the appeal of materials from historic residences. The aesthetic appeal and distinctive interplay of decorative patterns, colours and sizes that the architect wanted, are backed up on the technical front by the durability and ease of cleaning and maintenance that are vital requirements for a restaurant. Practical considerations also influence the lighting design, which features spots and strips built into the suspended ceiling, to provide a warm tone in keeping the general style of Angolo Divino.