In Messina, the famous architecture firm redefines the interiors and the brand of the new Sicilian themed café
In the heart of Messina, there is a new café/bar called Miscela d’Oro. The location is in an area that has long been one of the city’s favorite gathering places. The core of the intervention by Lissoni Associati concerns the ground floor of a small building with a Baroque façade highlighting the contrast between the ornate style of the exterior and the elegantly interpreted interior. The structural features resulting from preceding interventions formed the starting point for the project. The interior design department of Lissoni & Partners chose to maintain and enhance these elements rather than conceal them. This choice turned the architectural container into a neutral component on which to weave a contemporary interpretation of the location’s history.
Traditional majolica tiles, reinterpreted with a contemporary eye, are matched and applied to the pre-existing columns and alternate with the use of glazed lava stone that covers the coffee counter
Messina is a stopping point, an international city that has long drawn on the influence of different cultures. The essence of Sicily has been interpreted and narrated through the use of colors and materials that evoke restful and sunny weather. Whereas the exploration of techniques typical of the area and local craftsmanship is revealed in the treatment of the horizontal and vertical surfaces. Traditional majolica tiles, reinterpreted with a contemporary eye, are matched and applied to the pre-existing columns and alternate with the use of glazed lava stone that covers the coffee counter. While the overhead glass shelving leaves visible the structure of the ceiling. The walls of the tearoom, on the other hand, are lined with wood boiserie recalling the woodworking typical of the portals of Sicilian churches. In the same way, the custom-made benches call to mind the design of the pews. The use of transparency is also important in establishing a connection between the dining room and the kitchen. It engages the customer in the art of culinary and confectionery preparation that is entrusted to the wisdom of chef Filippo La Mantia.
he essence of Sicily has been interpreted and narrated through the use of colors and materials that evoke restful and sunny weather
The display niches in matt gold are a clear reference to the historical identity of the brand. The visual identity of which was entrusted to Lissoni Graphx, the studio’s internal graphics department. This realized the new logo, the pay-off, and the entire brand image. Matt gold is the color chosen for the new identity. It accompanies images of native plants developed as engravings applied also to menus and packaging.
Ilona Catani Scarlett