Almaz by Momo, Abu Dhabi

Galleria Mall, Abu Dhabi (UAE)

2013

Completed / Interior DesignArea - 740m²

Following the success of Almaz by Momo in the Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, Momo Restaurants launched its second restaurant in the chain in the Galleria Mall, Sowwah Square, Abu Dhabi.

The interior continues the Almaz brand’s innovative design which blends contemporary lines and traditional Moroccan style, but adds a business twist to reflect the restaurant’s location in the financial district in Sowwah Square. 

Almaz by Momo extends over several open-plan rooms: the bistro area; the central U-shaped lower area; the ‘yellow raffia’ private salon; the juice bar; and the covered terrace housing the shisha area. These different zones have been designed to create a range of atmospheres that appeal to diverse audiences. 

The spaces, architecture, interior design, detailing, landscaping and lighting are all the result of collaboration between members of a multi-disciplinary team of local and international craftsmen and suppliers.

The play of colors and patterns make Almaz by Momo the place to be in Abu Dhabi. Design elements such as brass trays, patterned textiles and the colorful Moroccan zellige wall, a signature feature of Almaz restaurants, create a feast for the senses.

Light is fragmented and reflected, and sparkles through mirrored surfaces.

Colored cement tiles with a leather-like finish and occasional copper tiles add a touch of bling to the warm, hexagonal, oak parquet flooring.

The false ceiling, typical of traditional markets, consists of wooden blades painted in warm hues of brown, orange and soft pink. The ceiling blades span the whole restaurant all the way to the covered terraces, creating a strong visual perspective.

The restaurant opens up to the shisha area under covered terraces, accessed through wide glass bays which allow in natural light and frame Abu Dhabi’s dramatic cityscape.

Splashing lights by CAI Light feature throughout the interiors. 

Credits

PhotographerGeorges Fessy

PhotographerTony Elieh