Little Italy in Taj Mall | Michaelis Boyd

The first project, Little Italy, recently opened in Taj Mall, Amman’s unique and prestigious shopping, dining and entertainment centre. Michaelis Boyd have created a spacious, airy two-­‐storey Italian restaurant with a relaxed day to evening environment. The 630m2 internal space is divided into two sections, with a café and gelato bar at the front and a dining area at the back, separated by a striking sculptural steel and timber staircase that twists and turns up to a light mezzanine seating area. In order to achieve the ambitious vision for the new restaurant, major structural work was undertaken to create an open balcony dining experience on the upper level looking over the restaurant and kitchen, or out to the beautiful garden. A central feature of the restaurant is an open pizza oven and grill kitchen, which adds theatre and energy to the dining experience. Contemporary, bespoke, glass pendant lights suspend from the upper level through a dramatic void. High ceilings run throughout, with large windows allowing natural light to enter the free flowing space. Wooden tables and chairs made by local craftsmen are positioned along the perimeter of the mezzanine. A textured and handcrafted look is carried throughout interior, with geometric blue and white hand-­‐painted tiles lining the walls, and timber logs sourced from local lemon trees cladding the kitchen counter, to create a natural and warm environment. Outside, the restaurant opens out to a large, 142m2 terraced garden on three levels, each featuring an olive tree at the centre, with trellises of vines and jasmine enveloping the space. The garden is a tranquil area surrounded by plants, and flowers that smell of Italy. A small fountain and herb wall, from which herbs will be used in the food, create a romantic Italian-­‐inspired setting.