Alimentari Mulino, Shenzhen | Riccardo Rubelli

Alimentari Mulino is a distinctive restaurant that combines a dining establishment, a bakery, and a shop offering fresh delicatessen and Italian products.

The concept draws inspiration from the Italian countryside, specifically watermills—hence the name "Mulino," which means mill in Italian. This theme is a homage to the idyllic Italian lifestyle, embodying the essence of "dolcevita."

The design is a harmonious blend of traditional countryside charm, classical elegance, and industrial elements. Spanning around 300 square meters, the restaurant includes a kitchen and an outdoor terrace.

Located in a prime-level shopping mall in Shenzhen, the restaurant offers a picturesque view of the mall's outdoor plaza.

Materials and architectural details reflect the rustic charm of Italian watermills and countryside houses.

The ceiling features a wooden structure with a rustic finish, partially covering the exposed ceiling with air conditioning machines and pipes, evoking the feel of a typical wooden roof.

Walls are adorned with red antique bricks, clay finishes in warm beige tones, glossy white tiles, and terracotta tiles.

The flooring features cement tiles with a traditional red and white pattern in the counter areas, and rustic wood in the seating areas to create a cozy and warm ambiance. Terracotta tiles are used for additional details.

The coffee and cocktails bar counter is covered with terracotta tiles, while the pastry, bread, and delicatessen fridge counters boast classical style frames painted red with white details.

The color palette is inspired by the Alimentari Mulino logo in red and white. Comfortable wooden benches upholstered with red leather characterize the seating area, complemented by a variety of tables and chairs in different styles, sizes, and materials to create a flexible, cozy, and dynamic atmosphere.

Large communal tables are a feature of both the indoor and terrace areas, fostering an informal and welcoming environment.

The restaurant facade is designed to be completely openable through folding windows, seamlessly connecting the outdoor terrace, adorned with typical festoon bulbs, to the indoor area, creating a unified space.

Lighting fixtures include a mix of vintage glass and industrial metal lamps, hung from wooden beams to define different areas within the space.

Two large arches with industrial-style windows provide a glimpse into the kitchen, which is decorated with white and red tiles.

Decorations and graphics play a crucial role in the concept, bringing Italian lifestyle elements into the space and capturing the clients' attention and memories. The decor is deliberately abundant, featuring various vintage illuminated signs, posters, and traditional accessories.

Large terracotta pots with plants and herbs add a touch of countryside charm, completing the Italian oasis that is Alimentari Mulino.

The project was carried out in cooperation with the client's design team