Architects Tiziano Vudafieri and Claudio Saverino have successfully translated the creative philosophy of chefs Pierre Gagnaire and Nicole Rubi - and their cuisine, inspired by Mediterranean specialties from Nice and Italy - into a setting with a welcoming, chic and relaxed ambience, through an interior design shared by the “Paradiso” restaurants in Cannes and Abu Dhabi. 

The Paradiso Nicole & Pierre restaurant in Cannes is part of the exclusive Hotel Barrière Le Majestic, in a seafront location across from the renowned Palais des Festivals. The same relaxed atmosphere that permeates the indoor lounge and the large three-level terrace overlooking the pool is also present in the Paradiso Abu Dhabi, a recently opened gourmet destination. The interiors by Vudafieri-Saverino Partners are a celebration of the Mediterranean spirit, Italian craftsmanship, and the world of cinema, and inspired by the talent and creativity of two stars of French cuisine: top multi-Michelin star chef Pierre Gagnaire and Nicole Rubi, founder of Nice institution and A-lister hot-spot La Petite Maison.

The two restaurants in Cannes and Abu Dhabi express the Mediterranean spirit through space, colour and texture, exploring its history through the lens of nature and tradition. Shades of green reminiscent of olive and sage leaves and the citrus hues of yellow and orange feature throughout the bright and welcoming interiors. The natural textures and finishes of ceramic, rattan panels and seating, and Modica limestone flooring mingle with more refined materials such as marble, brass, velvet and silk. The beige backdrop of the walls is decorated with a wallpaper reproducing a vintage map of the Mediterranean, scattered with images from iconic films shot in that area.

The orange pendant lights made from recycled plastic were designed and produced exclusively for the two restaurants, while rechargeable table lamps provide more intimate light. The tradition of Mediterranean craftsmanship is represented by the ceramics decorating the rooms. The Sicilian pieces by Giacomo Alessi in particular are one-off pieces made and decorated entirely by hand. 

These include baskets of fruit, a symbol of nature, abundance and life; pinecones, for health, hospitality and luck; anthropomorphic vases expressing the wealth of history and tradition of Sicily, that eternal crossroads of people and cultures; and plates, a tribute to the diversity of flavours and a symbol of the table, a place of warm conviviality, sharing and joy. Continuity between indoors and out is maintained by the terraces, furnished with rattan chairs with soft yellow cushions and terracotta vases planted with evergreens, and is emphasised by the stone flooring.

Paradiso Cannes & Abu Dhabi
Hotel Barrière Le Majestic, Cannes
Francia Yas Bay, Abu Dhabi 

Project: Vudafieri-Saverino Partners, Tiziano Vudafieri e Claudio Saverino Design team: Anna Petrara, Margherita Mezzetti, Vanessa Ramponi 

End of works: 2020 (Cannes), 2022 (Abu Dhabi) 

Photographer: Paolo Valentini and courtesy of Paradiso (Cannes) – courtesy of Paradiso (Abu Dhabi)