Le Babbo Mio

Interior architecture and decoration for a restaurant in Nice

The Babbo Mio appeared on the place du Pin in summer 2018, but was deeply rooted into the owner’s family history. His name was chosen paying tribute to the father of the owners, pioneer of the restaurants heritage into the family.

The father reference, who died a few months ago, was indeed very strong. I wanted a very Italian masculine decoration, almost inspired by "sprezzatura". And from there, all elements started to gather.

The obvious hommage is the large picture hanged on the wall in between the mirrors. It is a strong and reassuring presence, watching over the restaurant.

It has also guided the choice of the dark walnut, as a reference from Northern Italy where the family come from, the camel leather for the banquette, as an old club, and the black marble on the floor and counters for the strength.

The place was not simple to organize. Despite the large terrace, the indoor part was really small. To open the space I use the tricks of large glass partitions and cladded walls with mirrors. The banquette design was also participating on the same goal: with a very low back, it is giving the feeling of an higher space.

As a final touch, the high glossy wood boiseries on the walls and on the table tops are bringing elegance and calling for the 30’s period, giving depth and contrast to the story of the place.

Aude Gros-Rosanvallon
Holocène - Holocene design