The essence of our city, with its layers of history, diverse materials, and traces of time, inspired the design of Parrilla Restaurant by Aalva Arquitetos. Instead of viewing these elements as flaws to be corrected, the architects embraced them, recognizing their intrinsic value and contribution to the urban fabric. The interior of the restaurant reflects this ethos, with its six-sided volume encapsulating a myriad of textures, from raw to refined.
A Play of Presence and Void
Central to the design concept is the interplay between presence and absence. Rather than filling the space with overt interventions, the architects chose to celebrate emptiness as a defining element of the architecture. The restaurant’s layout revolves around a central void, around which the various functional elements orbit. This void serves as a focal point, drawing attention to the surrounding textures and features while imbuing the space with a sense of openness and tranquility.
Minimal Intervention, Maximum Impact
In keeping with the theme of absence, the design adopts a minimalist approach, with restrained interventions that allow the existing elements to shine. A central workstation, isolated yet accessible, serves as the focal point for food preparation, while the surrounding textures and materials provide a rich backdrop for the dining experience. Chromatic control, careful selection of furniture, and lightweight structures further enhance the sense of spatial harmony and balance.
Architecture of the Invisible
The project challenges conventional notions of architecture, positioning itself as a study in the invisible. Drawing inspiration from Archigram’s concept of on-off architecture, the design explores the dialectic tension between presence and absence, abstraction and materiality. Everyday materials, reminiscent of traditional barbecue construction, are elevated into poetic expressions, blurring the lines between industrial efficiency and artisanal craftsmanship.
Conclusion: Crafting an Experience
In essence, Parrilla Restaurant invites patrons on a journey of discovery, where the beauty lies not in the overt, but in the subtle interplay of elements. By embracing absence as a design principle, Aalva Arquitetos has created a space that is both timeless and evocative, inviting guests to engage with the rich textures and narratives woven into its fabric.
