A farm-to-table by architecture studio Etienne Bastormagi

When the owner of the farm-to-table eatery and bakery decided to launch its first flagship in the Port de la Mer development in Jumeirah, Dubai, Beirut-based studio Etienne Bastormagi was contacted to lead the architectural design.

The studio spearheaded the project with a series of strategic collaborations, bringing together regional designers and artists, opening conversations about the land, contextuality, materiality, and what it means to be inspired by the local culture. This collective aimed to create a local aesthetic that would align with the eatery’s concept. Using natural materials such as wood, paper and leather, the eatery’s overarching aesthetic was guided by earthy tones and colors reflecting the locally sourced menu.

The brief was to design and encompass an open inviting bakery / eatery area to showcase the warmth of baking, along with wireframe furniture designed to capture the abundant sun allowing the space to be designed by beautiful geometries through natural light, making it a gathering place for visitors. The architect's vision was to focus on the art of craftsmanship, from baking to ceramics, and celebrate local handcrafted pieces. The eatery’s commitment to slow living is embodied in the thoughtful, tactile experience of the space, encouraging guests to savor not just the food, but the entire atmosphere of mindfulness and deliberate simplicity.