The simplicity and geometry of the Mediterranean culture were the key influences behind the new Toplum restaurant in Riyadh. Lebanese-born, Dubai-based designer Ghida Chehab, founder of Studio Baab, has focused on materiality, refined detailing, clean lines, shapes and rhythms of patterns to enhance the verticality of the dramatic 6-meter-high space.

Surfaces

Clayworks’ raw, natural, earthy clay plaster was spread throughout the surfaces, contrasting with a combination of wooden blocks in different shapes and sizes. A Demi Rustic clay plaster, 4mm thick with subtle texture, bringing additional lighting and sound absorbing performance.  A travertine clad bar is enhanced by two wooden elements, one of which acts as a bold 12-meter vertical structure that connects the lower level to the mezzanine floor.

Ghida Chehab was recently announced as ‘One to Watch’ by Architectural Digest, Middle East. She is noted for her ‘warm, cosseting palettes’. She is quoted as saying: “What I enjoy most is materiality: discovering the wide range of crafts, textures and surfaces out there, and focusing on elements derived from nature.”

The idea of a physical setting that evokes a culinary experience is a speciality of Chebab when designing hospitality settings. The buff clay walls and mustard-coloured seating are reflected in the colours of Toplum’s hummus, muhammara and roasted eggplant dishes.

‘It’s clear that this is a designer who really understands how to whet appetites using colours and materials’ – Architectural Digest Middle East.

Finish: Demi Rustic in colour WHI-01

Design: Studio Baab

Indoor Furniture: Lighting: Fabraca • By Interiors: Sweepy Armchair• Agape Casa: Tre 3 Chair • Mor Design: Cast Leather Chair

Outdoor Furniture: Officinaciani: MARINA 3 seater Sunbrella® garden sofa • Moroso: Tropicalia Lounge Chair • Janus et Cie: Arbour Table • MDF Italia: Neil Twist Collection Dining Chair • Umbrusa: Umbrella Spectra • Vaust Studio: Total Exposure Side Table

Photographs: Mohammed Ashkanani

For more pictures please see our Case Study feature.