Space Copenhagen: Cozinha das Flores in Porto

Danish studio Space Copenhagen has designed the Cozinha das Flores restaurant in Porto, which is located together with the Flôr bar in a building complex dating back to the 17th century. Designers Signe Bindslev Henriksen and Peter Bundgaard Rützou have created a multi-layered design that celebrates local craftsmanship while showcasing luxurious textures and modern silhouettes.

The Cozinha das Flores is a restaurant in the historic Largo São Domingos square in Porto, Portugal. It is located in several interconnected buildings, two of which face the square and originally served as family homes. The remaining buildings have had many different purposes since the 17th century. The combination of the Cozinha das Flores restaurant and the Flôr bar is designed to relax guests while reflecting the lively and vibrant energy of Porto. Modern furniture, specially commissioned artwork and traditional accents create a special atmosphere.

The designers at Space Copenhagen wanted to create a strong connection between guest and space. Many different points of reference are present and invite exploration. The inviting interior is suitable for relaxation, while the window areas offer a view of the lively street.

Celebrity chef Nuno Mendes, probably Portugal’s most famous chef, treats guests to culinary specialties in the Cozinha das Flores. The focus here is on local traditions. The choice of colors, materials and textures in the restaurant also focuses on the local heritage. Handcrafted and decorative elements made from regional materials such as stone, wood, metal and tiles reflect the special flair of the region. The starting points for the designers were aged stone and dark, matt wood. In this way, they connect the building with its former purpose and its centuries-old history. Added to this are plastered walls in earthy, warm tones and the deliberate use of light to enhance and saturate the atmosphere. Accentuating metals such as blackened steel and darkened brass create highlights.

The central element in the Cozinha das Flores restaurant is the 50 seats at handmade oak dining tables in the main dining room. The tables form a contrast to the Wegner chairs and the modern pendant lights from OCHRE. The restaurant covers a total of 250 square meters. The open kitchen is arranged around a fireplace. This creates a connection between the guests and the local Portuguese products, which are prepared in a clearly visible manner.

An impressive, large wine cabinet with a selection of local and international wines is one of the highlights of the restaurant. The cabinet is made of dark oak and blackened steel. It is a unique piece that fills the entire back wall of the restaurant. The sommelier station made of natural stone in front of the cabinet also attracts attention.

In front of the wall cladding of the cabinet, the bathrooms are located in a little-expected, dimly lit room with bespoke tiles by Portuguese artist Bela Silva. These tiles are inspired by the themes of water and nature. There is also a unique sound installation in the bathrooms by Ian Johansson of Sontastic. It records sounds emanating from the building itself and uses them to create an atmospheric soundtrack that is constantly changing. Internal and external impulses and rhythms reveal more of the historic building.

Also to be found in Porto: An exciting conversion project by Portuguese office OODA.