Lila Molino, Dubai, UAE

Located in the vibrant warehouse arts district of Alserkal, Dubai, we were tasked with designing Lila Molino, a restaurant that reflects the authenticity, craft, and quality behind our clients Shaw & Tarek's culinary vision. The challenge was transforming an industrial space with poor insulation into a warm, inviting restaurant while maintaining its raw, industrial character.

We embraced the existing industrial framework as a canvas, integrating a material palette of timber, steel, glass block, terracotta, and abundant greenery to bring the high-ceilinged space to life. These elements not only create a vibrant dining atmosphere but also reflect the restaurant’s brand and character.

One of the most interesting aspects of the project was balancing the hospitality experience with the functionality of a commercial kitchen. Located beneath the restaurant, the kitchen produces wholesale tortillas and corn chips made from heirloom corn. Our design carefully navigated the needs of both spaces, ensuring that the production facility's demands harmonized with the welcoming ambiance of the restaurant above