Image Courtesy : Matteo Piazza
“My idea of good design is to combine the contemporary vision of society and user needs with the historical and cultural context of interior design,” says Daniela Colli, Principal Architect at COLLIDANIELARCHITETTO.
This philosophy results in a fusion of past and future, creating spaces that are surprising, dynamic, and celebratory. One of the finest examples of this approach is VyTA Covent Garden in London, a project that stands as a testament to her design ethos.
Promoted by renowned entrepreneur Nicolò Marzotto, co-owner of Santa Margherita Wine Group and owner of VyTA, the project set out to introduce a new style of fine dining that marries Italian gourmet cuisine with contemporary design.
Located in the East Tower of Covent Garden Market – a Grade II listed monument in London – the design draws heavily from the Italian architectural culture of the 1960s. Inspiration is evident in the refined construction, decorative detailing, and the elegant yet playful geometric stylizations that define the space. Spread across three floors with a large outdoor area overlooking the bustling square, the project also boasts two terraces on the upper floor serving as lounge bars.
The lower floor, once used as storage space for the shops above, now offers an intimate and welcoming setting. Vaulted ceilings crown rooms adorned with a polychrome marble floor inspired by the works of futurist painter Giacomo Balla. Comprising over 7,000 rhombuses and half-rhombuses, the dynamic marble pattern brings continuity to spaces shaped by the building’s original structure. White lacquered vaults with rhombus and circle decorations, lacquered walls with friezes, and mirrors amplify the space, creating a journey through an unexpected and intriguing underground London. Plush linear sofas, velvet-upholstered chairs in burgundy and pink peony, and glass tables with brass finishes complete the eclectic design.
The upper floor opens to the city through expansive windows. Here, mirrored surfaces enhance the sense of space, while rosewood, brass, glass, and velvet invite guests into a refined contemporary atmosphere. The cocktail bar features a striking counter clad in polished brass tubes with a green Alpi marble shelf – an elegant stage where wine tastings and signature cocktails are prepared.
Two terraces offer contrasting open-air experiences. The north-facing terrace is intimate, with sofas, colourful metal tables, and flower-filled vases. The south-facing terrace is larger, with a long counter, emerald green stools, and panoramic views of the Covent Garden dome and square. The VyTA Garden outdoor area accommodates up to 100 guests, with tables, chairs, and white umbrellas creating an urban oasis in the heart of the city.
VyTA Covent Garden is a cosmopolitan setting that harmonises perfectly with London’s aura. Its eclectic design is brought to life through custom accessories and premium Italian brands, including MMLampadari lamps, Horo Divania sofas, Cafèsthul chairs by Gebrüder Thonet, and Kelly C chairs by Tacchini. Together, these elements act as true ambassadors of Made in Italy in the UK capital.
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