Italian Restaurant Interior Design: Piatti Restaurant by Ivy Studio

Piatti Restaurant, located in Rosemère, Canada, has been a cherished culinary landmark on the North Shore of Montreal for over 15 years. Designed by Ivy Studio, the restaurant recently underwent a remarkable transformation following a devastating fire. This reinvention not only restored the space but also elevated its design, blending contemporary aesthetics with traditional Italian influences.

Reviving a Legacy Through Design

The historic building, once a small stone residence, had been extended decades ago to create a larger commercial space. After the fire, Ivy Studio embraced the opportunity to rejuvenate the restaurant while preserving its rich heritage. The redesign focused on enhancing the spatial flow and lighting, crafting a modern yet nostalgic ambiance that transports diners to the Mediterranean.

A Multi-Level Culinary Experience

The restaurant is housed within a two-storey structure. Guests enter through the lower level, which accommodates the preparation kitchen, private event room, and washrooms. As they ascend the main staircase, they discover the upper-level dining areas, kitchen, and a waterfront terrace that offers breathtaking views.

The main floor is divided into three distinct dining zones, each with its unique character. The bar, situated within the original stone house, exudes a dim and cozy atmosphere. The modern extension features an open main dining area with enlarged exterior openings that invite natural light and provide direct access to the terrace. An intimate private dining room, separated by a fluted glass partition, adds a secluded option for special occasions.

Celebrating Italian Design and Craftsmanship

The interior design of Piatti Restaurant draws heavily from traditional Italian motifs. The centerpiece of the restaurant is a striking green Saint-Denis marble pizza oven, a monumental structure that greets patrons upon arrival. Adjacent to the oven, a curved black-stained wood and marble counter serves multiple functions, blending practicality with artistry.

The design incorporates pistachio-green, hand-plastered double arches, sienna velvet banquettes, and mirrored walls that create a sense of depth and elegance. These elements harmonize with natural oak flooring, which is interrupted by a patterned marble inlay at the center of the dining space, adding a touch of intricacy to the overall design.

An Immersive Bar Experience

The bar area offers a distinct atmosphere, featuring ancient stone walls, a U-shaped bar with vertical oak boards, and a travertine countertop. A suspended steel structure displays bottles against a backlit fluted glass panel, creating a visually captivating focal point. Recessed ceiling lighting highlights the stone walls, adding to the bar's inviting evening ambiance.

Custom lighting fixtures are strategically placed to enhance the mood. Thick ring-shaped ceramic lamps illuminate banquette tables, while vintage glass pendants and custom arched surface lamps provide intimate lighting. A unique chandelier, composed of cream-painted cylinder lights arranged in a bouquet, serves as a statement piece above the central dining table.

Curated Details and Artistic Flourishes

Every element of the Piatti Restaurant's interior reflects careful consideration. Classic bistro chairs and custom-designed stools, made from steel, wood, and velvet, populate the space. Floor-to-ceiling sheer curtains soften the atmosphere, while hand-plastered walls and glossy black ceramic details add texture and sophistication.

The artistic vision extends to the decor, with a series of plaster paintings created in collaboration with a local artist. These pieces, displayed prominently throughout the restaurant, contribute to the unique identity of the space.

A Modern Tribute to Tradition

Piatti Restaurant's redesign by Ivy Studio successfully balances contemporary design principles with a deep appreciation for Italian tradition. The space not only offers an elevated dining experience but also pays homage to its culinary and architectural heritage. By combining craftsmanship, artistry, and functionality, Piatti has cemented its status as a beloved destination for food and design enthusiasts alike.

All Photographs are works of ALEX LESAGE