It is clear that local eatery Salt in Bugibba, which has been open for about a year and a half, has a firm eye on design. Here, owners Nicky Saliba and chef Isaac Saliba enlisted the help of Sean Cassar, founder and lead designer at Design HUB Malta, to realise their vision.
"We had the chef, the experience and the level of service required. All we needed was a concept and dynamic design, which made the space not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and comfortable."
“Due to the extensive space within the restaurant, the design was achieved by incorporating different sections within the space – starting from the entrance reception and bar, leading on to the lounge area with a fireplace, glass wine cellar, seating, chef’s table, open kitchen and private dining area on the upper mezzanine. We also incorporated a range of different light fittings, which as a whole, enhance the general dining aura within the space,” says Sean.
Speaking of the effect achieved, Nicky and Sean explain that while the restaurant is rich in design detail, it remains playfully conceptual. “All elements were custom-designed by Sean and locally fabricated. Details even extended to customised vintage frames, pendant light fittings and wire screens.”
The pair agree that aesthetics are paramount in today’s restaurants. “We invested in branding and design knowing that it was the final piece of the puzzle. We had the chef, the experience and the level of service required. All we needed was a concept and dynamic design, which made the space not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and comfortable.”
This is a snippet. Read the full feature on the latest issue of Business Agenda.
