In the heart of Barranquilla's El Prado neighborhood, the design narrative of this restaurant is a canvas painted with abstract memories from an architecturally rich past. Architect Catherine Jessurum, the creative force behind the project defines it as "A contemporary take on tradition." Going beyond, the project unfolds a tapestry of eras echoing the historical layers of El Prado, skillfully woven by the architectural and interior design prowess of DEB Consulting.
Located on the unique context of El Prado, a neighborhood resonating with diverse temporal and cultural influences, Jessurum notes the fusion of colonial layouts, republican ornamentation, neoclassical proportions, and art deco elements. As a native of the Colombian Caribbean coast, she emphasizes, "With this project, our intent is to forge a fresh connection with the past." At the core of the design, arches emerge as poignant symbols, linking the five distinctive spaces within the restaurant. This architectural motif, in its various scales and finishes, serves as a conceptual thread uniting the diverse environments seamlessly.
The design philosophy goes beyond aesthetics. "Our aim was to not only convey the structural essence of the house, fostering a sense of comfort and warmth but also to curate an unparalleled sensory experience—engaging taste, smell, sight, and touch," they assert. In this venture, DEB Consulting strives not just to create a restaurant but to craft an immersive journey through time and culture, where every element is a deliberate nod to Barranquilla's rich heritage.
Text and photography with Monica Barreneche.