ste. marie juxtaposes modernist + traditional italian elements in vancouver’s osteria

ste. marie juxtaposes modernist + traditional italian elements in vancouver’s osteria
(above) the design references three icons of italian design: carlo mollino, bruno munari, and enzo mari
all images courtesy of ste. marie

ste. marie is an internationally engaged, local-based studio dedicated to realizing fine and honest design projects. they are interested in the intersection of identity, strategy and the human codes that underpin any successful commercial space. for a restaurant in vancouver, canada, they decided to reference three icons of italian design: carlo mollino, bruno munari, and enzo mari, because the food served at the restaurant is from the same country. the result is a balance of simplicity, drama, and irreverence.

the wine holder showcases a wide italian collection

all of the finishes are rooted in an earthy quality, much like most roadside osteria’s or countryside trattoria’s throughout italy. in that same vein, the food, products, herbs, and preserves are as focal as the paintings on the walls. a mix of fabric lampshade sconces and opaline glass juxtapose modernist and traditional lighting. another instance of this blend is how the pleated oak walls form a modest rhythmic backdrop from which the sartorial quality of mixed banquet seating stand apart.

the result is a balance of simplicity, drama, and irreverence

a central eating bar becomes the nerve center of the room and helps to create a strong community nucleus in the restaurant. the bespoke shelving surrounding the open kitchen frames the wood-fire grill and rotisserie, while showcasing the restaurant pride in their collection of groceries, house-made preserves, and the unique all italian wine collection. the overall impression is focused and ordered, but mostly warm, fun, and welcoming.

a central eating bar becomes the nerve center of the room

all of the finishes are rooted in an earthy quality, much like italian roadside osteria’s or countryside trattoria’s

exterior

shelf detail

savio the fox

ravioli

exterior detail

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