20 DIGS.NET | 7.10.2020
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P R O F I L E | O L I V E T TA
"Lighting
design played
a big part in
our approach
to creating
a constantly
evolving
experience for
the user within
Olivetta."
L
ocated on the edge of Melrose Avenue,
Olivetta is the perfect spot no matter the
time or occasion, whether that is weekend
brunch, early evening drinks, a delicious
dinner—thanks to acclaimed L.A. chef Michael
Fiorelli—or a night at the bar and cabaret with
live music. European-inspired with a Californian
twist, the decor reflects this variety, while still
feeling cohesive.
"The storefront features a terra cotta walkway
set below a planted ceiling, which leads through
the large glazed front door and into the lounge
bar area," Parker describes. "Once inside the
restaurant, all four of the main spaces are visible.
To the left sits the sun-drenched courtyard with
its ceiling of vines growing across the space,
on the far side of which is the feature marble
fireplace. To the right, the pill-shaped bar breaks
the boundary line between lounge and bar, with
both these spaces wrapped in slate blue mohair
wall panels. Towards the rear of the space sit the
formal dining room and the bar area with large
mirrored back bar. Each of these spaces has its
own character and feel."
Finding the right balance between all
the atmospheres was one of the biggest
challenges, yet achieved through the design
elements. "Lighting design played a big part in
our approach to creating a constantly evolving
experience for the user within Olivetta," Parker
explains. "The key was to create a fresh space
in the daytime, particularly in the courtyard, and
then a more moody and atmospheric space at
night." Color varies but also provides a sense of
flow: shades of white, pastels and tone-on-tone
pattern for the Mediterranean-
FOR TOM PARKER, CO-FOUNDER OF ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN
STUDIO FETTLE, "THE MAIN CHALLENGE ON THIS PROJECT WAS
FINDING THE BALANCE BETWEEN THE DIFFERENT OPERATIONAL
ELEMENTS SUCH AS HIGH END RESTAURANT VERSUS LATE NIGHT
BAR/CLUB WHILE STILL PROVIDING A GREAT DAYTIME SPACE".
PHOTOGRAPHS:
COURTESY
OF
TANVEER
BADAL
AND
FRANK
WONHO
(BOTTOM
RIGHT)
