Alimentari Mulino stands out as a one-of-a-kind establishment that combines a dining experience with a bakery and a store specializing in Italian gourmet products.
Project Name: Alimentari Mulino
Studio Name: Riccardo Rubelli Architetto
Location: Shenzhen, China
Completion Year: 2023
Design Team: Riccardo Rubelli, Agata Ostrowska, Client design team
Client: Confidential
Built Area:170 SQM
Inspired by the Italian countryside, especially traditional watermills, the name “Mulino” (which means mill) reflects this theme and pays tribute to the charm of Italian rural life and the concept of “dolcevita.”
The design integrates elements of classic rural aesthetics with a touch of industrial style. Spanning roughly 300 square meters, the venue features a kitchen and an outdoor patio.
Located within a high-end shopping center in Shenzhen, it offers a picturesque view of the mall’s outdoor square.
The architectural materials and details evoke the rustic allure of Italian watermills and countryside homes. The ceiling, with its wooden framework and rustic finish, partially reveals air conditioning systems and pipes, reminiscent of traditional wooden roofing.
Walls showcase a mix of red antique bricks, warm beige clay finishes, glossy white tiles, and terracotta elements.
Flooring varies with traditional red and white patterned cement tiles in counter areas and rustic wooden floors in seating areas, creating a cozy, inviting environment. Additional terracotta details enhance the space.
The bar counters for coffee and cocktails are adorned with terracotta tiles, while the counters for pastries, bread, and deli items feature classic-style frames painted red with white accents.
The color scheme is based on the red and white of the Alimentari Mulino logo. Wooden benches upholstered in red leather define the seating area, complemented by a mix of tables and chairs in varied styles and materials to foster a flexible, warm atmosphere.
Large communal tables are featured both indoors and on the terrace, promoting an informal, welcoming vibe.
The restaurant’s facade includes folding windows that open fully, connecting the indoor space with the outdoor terrace, which is decorated with string lights for a cohesive look.
Lighting combines vintage glass and industrial metal fixtures, hung from wooden beams to define different areas of the restaurant.
Two prominent arches with industrial-style windows offer a view into the kitchen, decorated with red and white tiles.
Decorations and graphics play a key role, infusing the space with Italian lifestyle elements to engage customers and create memorable experiences. The decor is intentionally abundant, featuring vintage illuminated signs, posters, and traditional accents.
Large terracotta planters with herbs and plants add a final touch of countryside charm, completing the Italian retreat that is Alimentari mulino.
