bastone

Design Overview: Our design for Bastone, Atlanta’s first mozzarella bar, was influenced by the fresh mozzarella that’s prepared here. The focal point of the restaurant is the dual- purpose bar that offers two distinct bar experiences. On the right side of the bar, guests watch as the chef creates flights of mozzarella on the custom quartz bartop. Cured meats hang from the metal rack overhead. The left side of the bar is the cocktail experience, where wine and mixed drinks are served over a maple bartop.

In homage to the fromage, or to the mozzarella, the existing brick walls were painted off-white and we selected a light basketweave tile for the floor, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. We chose round ball chandeliers and sconces that resemble balls of moz. We also drew inspiration from the Bastone card, an Italian playing card. Red, gold, and olive accents are used throughout the design. The gold tufted banquettes feature contrasting red buttons, while the two-tone olive and gold tufted barstools are adorned with brass nailhead trim. A red, gold, and olive tile border runs along the back wall of the restaurant.

We incorporated timeless European influences in the design, including damask wallcovering and bentwood chairs. We strategically used mirrors to bounce light around the space. The mirror wall has become a popular Instagrammable moment in the restaurant, and it creates interesting vignettes for guests in the dining room. The wood-framed mirror tile behind the bar adds a sophisticated, reflective element. Plants and greenery are used as accents in the dining room to add a feeling of freshness in the space.