DESIGNED BY HUMBERT & POYET

One of the latest projects to emerge from the architectural studio of Humbert & Poyet in Monaco, is another restaurant addition to the internationally renowned Beefbar group. Following the global success of the restaurants in cities such as Paris, Hong Kong, Monaco, Dubai, Mykonos and other locations worldwide, Emil Humbert and Christophe Poyet were once again commissioned to design the latest concept of the restaurant on the beach in St Paul’s Bay, Malta. This marks the first of the beach side locations for the Beefbar brand. 

For this project, Humbert & Poyet drew inspiration from the local and natural surroundings of the site, particularly the stone and craftsmanship. This lead the architects to work off a warm colour palette that employed soft earthy tones. It also features exciting sporadic pops of colour in the shades of bright canary yellow, emerald green and tangerine orange, paired with black in order to bring the space to life.

The duo experimented with mixing a range of materials for the project such as rattan, ceramics, concrete and plaster to create the right tone and ambiance for the beachside restaurant. They also chose to use textured fabric and worked with playful stripes to create their beachside aesthetic.

Taking advantage of the restaurant’s waterfront location, the architects ensured that the space entirely opened up to the views of the sea line and the cascading rocks. Lush vegetation was also planted within the design to continue the theme of the natural Mediterranean surrounds indoors.

At the core of the design for the Beefbar project is craftsmanship, as almost all of the elements were custom made for the space. This is evidently found in bespoke pieces that are featured in the restaurant such as the ceramic tile tables in emerald green that are complimented with custom benches in crimson coloured fabric and rattan, and contrasted with cord chairs. The terrace outside, is decorated with handmade ceramics in terracotta that are suspended from the pergola. 

The restaurant has been designed with a lounge area with the intention to create the feeling of home with its large sofas. This homely ambiance is further crafted within the space as it features a library, where its bookshelf niches are decorated with handmade ceramics. The bookshelf wall also has another striking quality with its black and white mosaic tile feature. Additional craftsmanship qualities of handmade items can be found with the ceramic and paper maché pendants that adorn the space.

Outside, the pièce de résistance of the restaurant can be found in the form of an infinity pool that stretches and overlooks towards the Mediterranean sea. Surrounding the pool, yellow and navy blue striped daybeds and lounges line its parameters, where guests are able to recline and take in the spectacular views of the settings. 

‘As the first Beefbar on the Beach concept, Humbert & Poyet have created a space which is inviting, elegant and festive. Guests can dine, lounge, swim and enjoy live music during the day and throughout the night.’ 

PHOTOGRAPHY | FRANCES AMIAND