AB Concept: Paper Moon Giardino
AB Concept reveals the interiors of the exclusive Paper Moon Giardino restaurant in Milan.
Talented duo Ed Ng and Terence Ngan; founders of AB Concept have designed the interiors of the ultra-exclusive Paper Moon Giardino restaurant in Milan. Set within the enchanting surroundings of a 200-year-old former mansion, the Hong-Kong based studio has created several dining spaces and interiors that offer an elegant and relaxing escape from the busy streets and energetic district that surrounds it. Visiting for breakfast, lunch or dinner and drinks, guests have the opportunity to sit back, socialise and soak up the atmosphere that this historic design destination emits.
Designed to respect and enhance the building's original features, guests are treated to five destinations; the bar, Grand Salone, Parlour, Wine Library, and beautiful traditional courtyard garden, each of the rooms showcasing unique decor and characteristics that provide a luxurious and intimate experience. Antique murals on the structure’s vaulted ceilings create a dramatic central focus to each of the rooms, illuminated by concealed lighting that effortlessly draws the eyes upwards, out of the contemporary floorspace and into the very soul of the building.
Visitors are warmly greeted by the earthy grey tones of the bar interior, a space that offers guests a relaxed experience to enjoy a customised cocktail or coffee before heading through to the restaurant's dining experiences. Clad in a high gloss black stone, the bar features a tree inset into the unit, providing a natural touch that softens the surroundings with its oval-shaped leaves and beautiful green hues. Mirror is a crucial material used within the room, cladding the walls that surround the maître d'hôtel's stand as well as creating a striking feature that backs the bar and display unit. Not only does this material visually expand the inter, but it also directs light, effortlessly transitioning from day to night, adapting to the various moods and atmospheres of the day.
The Parlour is a home away from home, a comfortable social space that uses light natural tones with a beautiful spectrum of woods to create a welcoming atmosphere that amplifies the dining experience. Dark teal velvet upholstery adds a comforting and sophisticated touch that ties together the natural wood used within the furniture designed by Promemoria and accessories with the high gloss table surfaces and incredible terrazzo flooring. The theme of nature continues with the use of ornamental plants, floral arrangements and decorative cushions adorned with lilies, a direct connection with one of the restaurant’s most significant assets, the courtyard garden.
When it comes to exquisite dining and opulent surroundings, the Grand Salone has it all. Opting for a subtle colour palette of creams and browns, inspired by the ancient mural on the ceiling above, the design of the Salone accentuates the use of texture within the interior. Black framed mirror panels are positioned in the corners of the room, capturing and reflecting the movements and colours within the space. The focal point is a full-length upholstered panel wall, framed and back-lit to adapt to the varying lighting conditions of the day. This unique design element connects the restaurant at eye level with the dramatic mural above.
Similar to the other rooms, the designs of the Wine Library take their inspiration from the grand mural above. Hints of orange and yellows have been applied to the upholstery of the dining chairs while a series of eight circular mirrors, hung to overlap six photographic works, capture the dominant green hues, providing a unique display for every guest. Large glass cabinets showcase the very best wines on offer on three of the walls, the many labels, colours and bottle sizes acting as a giant evolving canvas for visitors to on every visit.
In the warmer months, the traditional courtyard garden provides a secluded oasis in the heart of a busy city district. Away from the traffic, shoppers and active city lifestyle, one could easily feel as if they are at a relaxing country retreat.
Enjoying the historic architecture, combined with the thoughtfully curated interiors designed by Ng and Ngan, Paper Moon Giardino is an exclusive dining destination that needs to be experienced time and time again. The appreciation and respect for the building's heritage allow for a new chapter to develop. The designers have been selfless, dedicating their expertise, passion and talents into a project that speaks for itself, taking centre stage and showing itself off to a crowd that is in awe. Paper Moon Giardino is a true testament to the incredible talents that AB Concept has to offer.
