Spatial Adaptation

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Cucucina II became a natural continuation of the first restaurant’s success — a franchise evolution in which the brand’s recognizable atmosphere was reinterpreted through a new spatial context. Our task was to preserve the emotion of sunny Italy while delicately integrating it into a different architectural shell.

The triangular geometry of the space introduced a new planning logic and created the opportunity for an unconventional seating scenario: the raised platform behind the railing was transformed into an intimate balcony-like setting, echoing the atmosphere of lively Mediterranean streets. The new ceiling height and altered scale of the interior required a rethinking of certain conceptual elements, resulting in a more intimate, almost private character.
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Another key challenge was integrating the project with the neighboring restaurant Manana. Due to the constraints of the architectural composition, we designed a unified entrance sequence where the hostess stand, restaurant entry, and restroom block were combined into one cohesive and functionally refined space serving both venues.

‍Sunny Italy in the Heart of the City

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At the core of Cucucina lies the idea of instant emotional transportation: the moment guests cross the threshold, the rhythm of the city fades away, giving way to the atmosphere of sunny Italy. The space is filled with the spirit of lively streets, warm Mediterranean tones, the aroma of freshly baked pastries, Italian music, and the lightness of a coastal escape that evokes the feeling of the Amalfi Coast.

Materials and textures reinforce this narrative: the stone flooring recalls the paving of Italian streets, the walls are finished in rough plaster, and textiles with vibrant prints bring warmth and a lively character to the interior. Greenery plays a central role in shaping the atmosphere — tall trees create the feeling of an intimate courtyard without overwhelming the space. The natural sightline remains below the canopy level, allowing the greenery to enhance rather than obstruct the volume, adding depth and creating the distinctive feeling of an Italian patio in the middle of the city.

Spatial Scenarios

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The planning logic of Cucucina II was shaped around the guest journey and the feeling of an intimate Italian courtyard. The priority was to create a variety of seating typologies: cozy window-side spots by the panoramic glazing, high seating in the entrance zone, a large round table for groups, and a central triangular composition inspired by the geometry of the space. It was precisely the shape of the interior that suggested an unconventional solution — a cluster of intimate round tables at the center, naturally echoing the atmosphere of lively Italian streets.

The entrance area was organized around a high bar table, creating comfort within the transitional zone and aligning the level of interaction between seated guests and the flow of people moving through the space. Stone flooring extends the image of an Italian street, remaining a neutral backdrop for the vibrant furniture, textiles, and accent décor.

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A special role in the spatial narrative is played by the raised platform seating, ideal for large groups and family celebrations. Through the use of mirrors and a delicate separation from the main hall, this zone maintains a sense of privacy while still feeling connected to the restaurant’s shared atmosphere.

The functional logic of the kitchen processes defined the placement of the open pizza-making and preparation zone near the stairs leading down to the kitchen, while the open bar and dessert display enhanced the theatrical quality of the guest experience. The bay window naturally became the setting for a large round table, highlighted by a striking chandelier visible from the very entrance.

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Lighting was designed as an atmospheric tool: track systems accentuate seating, decorative elements, and the texture of the plaster, while pendant fixtures create intimate pools of light above key zones. String lights combined with suspended greenery soften the ceiling plane, while columns reimagined as arches organically integrate additional seating and reinforce the image of a small Italian town.

Precision in Execution

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During the implementation phase of Cucucina II, the key objective was to preserve the atmosphere embedded in the original concept while translating every detail with maximum precision. It was essential for us that the completed space not only remained true to the design vision, but also brought guests a genuine sense of comfort, joy, and pleasure.

A continuous dialogue between the project team, the interior designer, and the construction contractors played a decisive role throughout this process. The open kitchen required particular attention: after the equipment procurement stage, the technological layout was revised, which affected the drawings and detailing of this zone. Thanks to timely coordination, all adjustments were promptly integrated, helping to prevent implementation errors. A well-timed kitchen technology package made it possible to seamlessly integrate the design into the kitchen workflow and, in turn, align the kitchen technology with the design language, ensuring a close relationship between these two layers of development.