Le Creuset's new Olive Garden range is a Mediterranean dream

Le Creuset has introduced its new SS20 collection, named "Zen Kitchen," drawing inspiration from Japanese culture to bring a sense of tranquility and mindfulness into the home. This collection is aligned with the prevailing 2020 interiors trend that emphasizes Japanese influence. The Zen Kitchen range is designed to facilitate the preparation of simple yet authentic Japanese dishes, blending existing Le Creuset staples with new products. The collection features a harmonious color palette inspired by Japan's appreciation for neutral tones and natural elements. The colors include the serene Meringue, tranquil Coastal Blue, calming Flint, and a vibrant accent of Cerise. These shades evoke imagery of cherry blossoms, Zen gardens, and expansive blue waters under the rising sun, aiming to create an environment that promotes energy, elegance, and well-being. This aesthetic serves as a counterbalance to the fast pace of modern life, fostering peace and calm within the kitchen space. Key new additions to the Zen Kitchen collection include a 3-ply Stainless Steel Wok, available in classic Cerise and Flint, as well as Meringue and Shell Pink. The new Cast Iron Rice Pot and Cocotte Every are presented as ideal for cooking perfectly fluffy rice, as well as various soups and casseroles. For tea enthusiasts, a new Stoneware Teapot with a Stainless Steel infuser is introduced. The collection also features dedicated dinnerware such as the Stoneware Noodle Bowl 1L and Stoneware Rice Bowl 600ml, specifically designed for serving ramen and rice dishes. To complement the new cookware and dinnerware, Le Creuset collaborated with Masterchef 2011 winner Tim Anderson and renowned Japanese chef Yuki Gomi to provide authentic Japanese recipes and culinary inspiration. These recipes include dishes like oven-baked Miso Curry Chicken, Primavera Fried Rice, Salmon in Nan Ban Sauce, and Pork, Tofu & Hijiki Patties, demonstrating the versatility of the new products for various cooking styles. The article also provides visual examples of the new products and food styling, highlighting how the collection integrates Japanese aesthetics into functional kitchenware. #LeCreuset #ZenKitchen #JapaneseDesign #Kitchenware #HomeInteriors #Cookware #MindfulLiving #CulinaryTrends

The Sonoma-based interior design firm Hommeboys, led by Alex Mutter-Rottmayer and Austin Carrier, has opened a new studio and launched three new capsule collections for their furniture line, Haus of Hommeboys. The firm is known for its thoughtful design approach and hands-on craftsmanship, blending classic Wine Country aesthetics with a modern, refreshing twist. Mutter-Rottmayer and Carrier, who have been married since 2019, have previously garnered acclaim for their designs in projects such as Healdsburg’s Marine Layer tasting room and Sonoma’s Valley Bar + Bottle restaurant. The new studio, which also houses a woodshop and cabinetry studio, is situated just off the plaza in downtown Sonoma. This expansion represents a significant step for the Hommeboys, fulfilling a long-held ambition to establish their own showroom. Mutter-Rottmayer expressed a mix of excitement and apprehension about the venture, acknowledging the risk involved in showcasing their unique design vision to a wider audience, but emphasizing their consistent desire for a dedicated space. The Hommeboys’ design philosophy is characterized by an emphasis on mixing materials and incorporating organic and natural elements. They experiment with various shapes in plaster, stone, and wood, aiming for a look that is both earthy and deeply connected to the Californian landscape. This approach is reflected in their furniture line, which features organic and natural materials. One of their new capsule collections for Haus of Hommeboys draws inspiration from rustic themes. This collection includes dark, ebony-stained, hand-notched cedar furniture, designed to evoke a raw, rustic, and edgy feel. The shapes within this collection are described as anthropomorphized, influenced by the golden hills of California. The design process at Hommeboys is driven by creativity and a desire to have fun. Alex Mutter-Rottmayer highlighted an instance where green velvet from a photo shoot was spontaneously used to cover a bedroom’s walls, illustrating their adaptive and playful approach to design. This method emphasizes utilizing available resources and embracing unexpected inspirations to shape their distinctive interiors. #InteriorDesign #Sonoma #DesignStudio #FurnitureDesign #HausOfHommeboys #WineCountryDesign #OrganicDesign #Craftsmanship

Listone Giordano, a distinguished Italian company renowned for its fine wooden floors, boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1870 by Eugenio Margaritelli. The company initially focused on industrial-scale wood processing. A century later, Eugenio's son collaborated with scientist and engineer Guglielmo Giordano to develop a groundbreaking floor covering system, leading to the brand being named in Giordano's honor. Currently, Andrea Margaritelli, the third-generation owner, continues to steer the company with a strong commitment to innovation and research. Beyond flooring, the Margaritelli family nurtures another significant passion: winemaking. In 1946, Eugenio Margaritelli established the Terre Margaritelli winery in his native Umbria, Italy, after entrusting the flooring business to his three sons. This winery has since evolved into a 100% organic operation, located near Listone Giordano's headquarters, and has become intricately linked with the flooring business. Andrea Margaritelli emphasizes that the synergy between wood and wine is deeply ingrained in the family's history. The connection between these two ventures solidified in France. In the early 1960s, Andrea's father traveled to Burgundy to establish a factory. This move was prompted by the region's abundant raw materials, which were scarce in Italy at the time. A factory was set up in Fontaines, where innovative techniques in wood cutting, drying, and sawing were implemented. Semi-finished oak slats from this factory are then transported to Italy for the final finishing of Listone Giordano's flooring collections. Crucially, the same French oak is used to craft barrels by local cooperage Tonnellerie Toutant, which are subsequently utilized for aging Terre Margaritelli wines. The Bertrange forest in Burgundy, where Margaritelli's production is based, holds historical significance. It was cultivated by Cistercian Monks in 1098, who not only established a lasting forestry tradition but also pioneered winemaking in the region. This double legacy profoundly influences the identity of the entire area. Andrea Margaritelli notes that each tree embodies a millennial history, making the material exceptionally special. Andrea's approach to the family business is deeply rooted in a passion for history and tradition. After earning his engineering degree, he spent two years at the Fontaine factory, immersing himself in every aspect of wood, from its origin in the forest to its transformation into flooring or barrels. This hands-on experience has provided him with precise knowledge of wood quality from different forest sections, enabling the selection of optimal trees for barrel production. He jokingly, yet sincerely, remarks on the unparalleled obsessiveness of their winemaking process. Under Andrea's leadership, Listone Giordano has also embraced contemporary design through collaborations with prominent designers. Michele De Lucchi, one of the first collaborators, drew inspiration from the forest and early wooden floors, creating asymmetric slat designs that mirror the natural evolution of a tree. More recently, Patricia Urquiola's "Biscuit" collection pays homage to the historic parquet floor of Versailles. This collection, which can also function as a wall panel, marks a new direction for the company, with a three-dimensional furniture collection also in development. Andrea believes that design is not merely an aesthetic pursuit but a means to understand and articulate the origins of things, grounding new forms in a thousand-year history. Looking to the future, Andrea has initiated a reforestation project in Umbria, aiming to plant 160 hectares of oak trees. This endeavor reflects his characteristic approach of leveraging historical knowledge for present-day applications while simultaneously fostering a legacy for future generations. This project is expected to re-establish a sustainable forest cycle in approximately two centuries in Italy. This comprehensive strategy underlines Listone Giordano's commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the enduring connection between its diverse family enterprises. #ItalianFlooring #WoodFlooring #Winemaking #FamilyBusiness #SustainableForestry #FrenchOak #DesignInnovation #ListoneGiordano #TerreMargaritelli

The article explores the philosophy and curated offerings of Olive Ateliers, a Los Angeles-based furniture and home decor store, emphasizing their approach to sourcing "objects with old souls" to bring a sense of global travel and history into contemporary living spaces. Co-founders Kendall Knox and Laura Sotelo discuss their unique sourcing strategy, which involves importing homeware gems from various countries like France and Indonesia. They highlight how these pieces, often vintage or antique, possess a rich history and craftsmanship that contribute to their unique character and depth. Olive Ateliers has garnered a significant following, including celebrities and design professionals, for its distinctive "drop" approach to releasing new collections. Laura Sotelo explains that their passion lies in finding objects that tell a story, citing an example of hand-woven baskets from a French artisan who has dedicated his life to the craft. This focus on the provenance and the stories behind each item is central to the brand's identity. The concept of an object's "soul" is further elaborated, noting that it is derived from both its historical journey and the skill of its creators. Even minor imperfections are viewed as adding value and wisdom, contributing to the item's charm and authenticity. The aesthetic of Olive Ateliers is characterized by natural, airy materials such as linen and chanvre, complemented by pieces that exude a lived-in nostalgia, aiming to create tranquil and inspiring environments that highlight charismatic objects. The founders advocate for "curious living," encouraging individuals to develop a curator's eye by understanding the special qualities and histories of objects. This practice is believed to foster a stronger connection to pieces and evoke a sense of nostalgia. The article then presents a selection of 12 items from Olive Ateliers' collection that evoke a "worldly summer vibe." These include an antique waxed marble bowl from India, an onyx bag from Indonesia designed to resemble a vintage handbag, and escargot pots that add a French touch. Other highlighted items include an organic onyx mortar candle with a signature scent, vintage Turkish bread boards, and metal face bar stools from Mexico, inspired by designer John Risley. The collection also features a vintage limestone trough from Indonesia, suggested for use as a fountain, and a cast stone bench reminiscent of French park seating. Vintage elm wood stools from China, once used by workers, are presented as versatile pieces, while vintage Turkish olive jars, originally for olive oil, are re-imagined as sculptural vessels. Finally, vintage bleached wood risers from India, used for chapati dough, are offered as rustic pedestals, and assorted vintage clay vessels, once holding Indian culinary staples, are showcased as essential decorative pieces. Each item is described with its historical context and potential uses, reinforcing Olive Ateliers' mission to bring unique, story-rich pieces into the home. #HomeDecor #VintageFurniture #GlobalHomeware #InteriorDesign #CuratedCollection #Sourcing #DesignPhilosophy #AntiqueFinds #DecorInspiration

Le Creuset has unveiled its new Spring 2019 cookware collection, "The New Calm," designed to bring a sense of tranquility and intentionality to the kitchen. This launch follows the popular trend of decluttering and embracing mindfulness, as popularized by figures like Marie Kondo. The collection features four distinct, serene color palettes, described as compelling yet uncomplicated, rich yet purposeful, and restrained. The four new colors are Meringue, Sea Salt, Fig, and Coastal Blue. Meringue is a luxurious ivory tone, inspired by classic French confections, offering a soft, soothing, and elegant aesthetic. Sea Salt is a blue-green hue, drawing inspiration from the subtle tones of fleur de sel, evoking a calm, oceanic feel. Fig presents a comforting and complementary deep violet, with subtle shades of brown, standing out as a unique and appealing option. Lastly, Coastal Blue is an airy and inviting shade, designed to evoke the clear morning skies and the serene atmosphere of a quaint coastal town. These new colors are available across a wide range of Le Creuset's signature cast-iron and stoneware products. Customers can find these tranquil hues in various kitchen essentials, including skillets, braisers, woks, Dutch ovens, Balti dishes, and saucepans. The collection aims to align with current trends emphasizing clarity and intentionality in home environments, particularly in the kitchen, making it easier for individuals to infuse their cooking spaces with a sense of calm and aesthetic appeal. The introduction of these new shades allows consumers to choose pieces that not only serve a functional purpose but also contribute to a peaceful and beautifully curated kitchen ambiance. The article highlights the aesthetic appeal and the conceptual inspiration behind each color, positioning the collection as a way to integrate a sense of 'Zen' into daily life through kitchenware. #LeCreuset #SpringCollection #Kitchenware #Cookware #HomeDecor #ZenKitchen #ColorPalette #MarieKondoInfluence

Violino d’Oro, a five-star boutique hotel unveiled by Collezione Em from the Maestrelli family, is situated a short walk from St. Mark's Square in Venice. This property aims to offer an immersive experience into Venetian culture, blending tradition with contemporary design, sustainability, and an authentic Venetian spirit. The hotel reflects the Maestrelli family's over three decades of experience in hospitality, emphasizing respect for cultural heritage and excellence. It has been recognized by The Leading Hotels of the World, signifying its status among exclusive global destinations. The hotel is housed within three meticulously restored 17th-century buildings. The interior design prioritizes silence, texture, and natural light. Every detail, from the materials to the subtle scents, contributes to a unique atmosphere. Sara and Elena Maestrelli have guided the reimagining of Venetian hospitality with a focus on sophistication and human connection. The decor features fabrics by Rubelli, lamps by Venini, artisanal Venetian terrazzo floors, and a curated collection of Italian art and design, all harmoniously integrated. The 32 rooms and suites balance elegance and comfort, showcasing a blend of clean-lined Italian furniture, Oriental pieces, Venetian antiques, and contemporary elements. Canal views, high ceilings, and a soft color palette contribute to a serene and sophisticated ambiance. Sara Maestrelli describes the hotel as an “artisanal Italian project designed like a home,” with everything from glassware to headboards crafted locally in Venice and Tuscany, using noble materials and skilled craftsmanship. Velvets, brocades, and damasks from Rubelli, Carrara marble inlays, and hand-blown Murano glass lamps are prominent features, each with a unique story and tactile quality. Sustainability is a core philosophy at Violino d’Oro, extending beyond a marketing label. This commitment is evident in the use of local materials, support for artisan economies, and mindful resource management, reflecting a dedication to environmental responsibility and the future of luxury travel. The hospitality is characterized by warmth, attentiveness, and personalized service, with staff trained to anticipate guest needs, offering a balance of professionalism and approachability. Breakfasts are served in a sun-drenched dining room, featuring fresh, seasonal, and organic produce, artisanal pastries, and made-to-order coffee, catering to various dietary preferences. The serene atmosphere is designed to promote a sense of well-being. The hotel's culinary highlight is Il Piccolo, an intimate, Michelin-recognized restaurant with nine tables. It offers a contemporary, plant-forward menu based on local and seasonal ingredients, complemented by creative cocktails from head bartender Francesco. The menu evolves with the seasons, combining innovative techniques with traditional respect for ingredients. Violino d’Oro offers unique experiences connecting guests to the soul of Venice. These include Venetian cooking classes, yoga by the canals, mixology workshops, and private visits to artisan ateliers like Rubelli or Micheluzzi. Cultural tours provide access to lesser-known parts of the city, operas, or private palaces. Tailor-made experiences such as sunrise photography walks, guided strolls through Dorsoduro, private lagoon cruises, and food tours through traditional Venetian bacari are also available, aiming to foster a deep connection with the city. Excursions to Murano and Burano are also arranged, offering insights into glassmaking and lace-making traditions, respectively. Murano provides opportunities to observe glass artisans at work and purchase unique pieces, while Burano captivates with its colorful houses and the delicate craft of handmade lace. The hotel aims to provide a new way of experiencing Venice—authentic, sophisticated, and deeply emotional, a sanctuary that makes guests feel at home while offering an exceptional and unique stay. #VenetianLuxuryHotel #BoutiqueHotel #VeniceTravel #ItalianDesign #SustainableHospitality #CulturalImmersion #ArtisanCraftsmanship #MichelinRestaurant #HistoricRenovation

Matteo Cainer Architecture (MCA) has proposed 'Colle degli Agrumi – Citrus Hill,' a tranquil retreat located in the Sicilian hills of Piedimonte Etneo. This project focuses on the restoration of existing farmhouse ruins, aiming to seamlessly integrate Sicilian history, culture, wellness, and art. The design prioritizes the natural landscape, particularly the abundant citrus groves, and offers views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea. The core vision for 'Colle degli Agrumi' is to revive a piece of 'invisible' Sicily by immersing guests in a biophilic environment that complements the Italian countryside without imposing upon it. The architectural approach references traditional Sicilian farmhouses, known as 'Masserie' and 'Bagli Fortificati,' which are characterized by their fortified and introspective layouts. MCA plans to activate this traditional architecture with a site-specific program of events designed to connect visitors with Sicily's natural and cultural heritage. Activities such as grape harvest, olive picking, and the recognition of local fruits and aromas will be offered alongside cultural and wellness moments. This multifaceted approach is intended to allow guests to experience the unique smells, flavors, and melodies of the land, fostering a deeper connection with the region. The site plan by MCA emphasizes preserving historical traces by highlighting hidden details and natural paths within the groves. Existing walls and buildings will undergo minimal restoration to retain their original forms, and new functions will be introduced while rethinking existing elements like stairways to enhance connectivity across the site. This synergy of moments and sensations is designed to create an environment conducive to relaxation and inner peace. Each restored building is assigned a function that aligns with its location and morphology, creating a cohesive and purposeful layout. For instance, the Palmento, historically a wine-making area, is envisioned as a laboratory for citrus-based products such as creams and oils. Adjacent dilapidated structures will be repurposed as a daytime resting area and an open-air cinema in the evenings. Moving through the citrus groves, guests will find a holistic therapy area and a wine cellar carved out of volcanic rock, complete with a terrace for tastings under the dappled light of medlar trees. The main building is set to become a lounge and restaurant, featuring a spacious terrace shaded by a bougainvillea-covered pergola, offering panoramic views of Taormina and the Mediterranean Sea. Scattered storage spaces will be converted into small guest rooms, designed with earthy tones and views of the landscape. An ancient tower, once used for citrus fruit storage, will be rebuilt to re-establish its original function on the ground floor, while the first floor will house a Sicilian music and academic library. At the very top, a belvedere terrace will offer views of Mount Etna. Additional new features include a natural pool and surrounding area, providing shade under olive trees during the day and transforming into an amphitheater for literary, theatrical, and musical events in the evening. Hidden paths and spaces within the vegetation are also being carved out for meditation, reading, and yoga, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature. The project, 'Colle degli Agrumi,' was proposed during La Biennale Dello Stretto, an event organized by Mediterranei Invisibili. #MatteoCainerArchitecture #SicilianRetreat #ColleDegliAgrumi #SustainableTourism #ArchitecturalRestoration #CitrusGroves #WellnessTourism #PiedimonteEtneo #MediterraneanArchitecture

Architects Mathias Klotz from Chile and Carolina Pedroni from Uruguay have collaborated to introduce three new structures to a 12-acre private vineyard estate in José Ignacio, Uruguay. This location, known as a chic alternative to the bustling Punta del Este, transitions into a tranquil South American oasis during the off-season. The project includes a villa, a guest house, and a yoga pavilion, all designed to seamlessly integrate with the rustic vineyard setting while offering refined accommodations. The architectural approach for these buildings employs a consistent modernist aesthetic. Each structure features crisp, rectilinear forms clad in native *lapacho* wood, characterized by its reddish hue. This material is used extensively, from the exterior siding to the sun-screening sliding doors and folding shutters, creating a unified visual identity across the compound. Pedroni emphasizes that this wooden 'skin' not only provides cohesion but also offers privacy and flexibility, allowing spaces to be either completely open or strategically divided. Internally, the structures are finished with light-hued eucalyptus or *abedul* woods, further reinforcing the sense of unity throughout the interiors. The guest house, conceived as a prototype for future accommodations, is a two-bedroom unit situated on a wooden platform that doubles as a deck, offering views of a nearby pond. Its design is modular and intended to be adaptable to various locations on the estate. The villa, a one-bedroom structure framed in concrete, and the yoga studio are also positioned near the pond. Klotz highlights the high level of craftsmanship involved in these structures, despite their seemingly simple designs. The buildings, sharing common materials and a unified sensibility, are described as siblings, suggesting a potential for future expansion to include additional guest quarters, a pool, or a restaurant, though the possibility of no further development is also noted. Named Las Musas, meaning 'The Muses,' after the owner's wine label, the property's design is intended to foster a connection with nature. This connection is particularly evident in the yoga pavilion, which Pedroni notes offers exceptional acoustics due to its wood cladding and vaulted ceiling, making it an inspiring venue for creative activities, including classical music performances. The project sources mention specific products and suppliers, including Delta Light ceiling lights through Trios Lighting, side chairs through Mad For Modern, stone flooring in the villa by Anibal Abbate, and cushions by Camila Oks. Throughout the property, Duravit sinks are utilized. The overall design prioritizes an indoor-outdoor living experience, with features like large sliding glass doors in the living area that open to expansive decks and floor-to-ceiling folding shutters that can screen the villa's outdoor living space, enhancing comfort and privacy while blurring the lines between the built environment and its natural surroundings. #MathiasKlotz #CarolinaPedroni #UruguayArchitecture #VineyardDesign #ModernistArchitecture #LapachoWood #YogaPavilion #GuestHouseDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving

Interior architect Pierre Yovanovitch, renowned for his contemporary French design sensibilities and custom furniture pieces, has announced the launch of his first furniture brand, Pierre Yovanovitch Mobelier. This new venture allows individuals to purchase his unique furniture designs directly, moving beyond bespoke commissions for interior projects. Yovanovitch's atelier has a long-standing reputation for collaborating with skilled artisans in Switzerland and France to create high-quality, one-of-a-kind furnishings. The genesis of Pierre Yovanovitch Mobelier follows two successful exhibitions with R & Company, a New York City design gallery: 'Oops' in 2017 and 'Love' in 2019. The 'Oops' exhibition notably introduced his iconic Bear armchairs, which have since become highly coveted pieces. Yovanovitch explains that the furniture brand is a natural progression of his work, which began in 2001 with custom furniture design for clients. He initially created these pieces to ensure the highest quality and perfect fit for his interior projects, but they quickly evolved into a form of independent creative expression. The inaugural collection from Pierre Yovanovitch Mobelier features 45 pieces of furniture and lighting. These pieces are currently on display at the Académie de l’Architecutre building at the Place des Vosges in Paris, with the exhibition running until May 21st. The collection is deeply influenced by the French Riviera, Yovanovitch's childhood home. He draws inspiration from the region's abundant sunlight, its dramatic sunsets, the varied textures of its seasonal nature, and the vibrant sensory experience of the lavender blooms in the Plateau de Valensole. To bring this collection to life, Yovanovitch collaborated with a network of skilled craftsmen. Notable collaborations include ceramicist Armelle Benoit for a table design, textile experts at Atelier Jouffre, and metalworkers at Fonderie Fusions. The brand has also appointed Cédric Morisset, formerly a director at Carpenters Workshop Gallery, as its new CEO. A dedicated showroom for Pierre Yovanovitch Mobelier is scheduled to open in Paris at the end of the month, situated within the same building that houses Yovanovitch's interior architecture headquarters. Yovanovitch views this new brand as a significant milestone, signifying a mature stage in his furniture design career. He emphasizes that the objective is to present these pieces as individual works, each possessing its own unique narrative, separate from the context of specific interior projects or exhibition scenography. The expansion into a direct-to-consumer furniture brand represents a strategic move to make his distinctive designs more accessible to a wider audience. #PierreYovanovitch #FurnitureDesign #FrenchDesign #LuxuryInteriors #HomeDecor #ArtisanCraftsmanship #RivieraInspired #DesignerCollection

Koukos de Lab, a creative venture founded by Irene Moutsoyiannis and Christos Ververis, is transforming olive pits into durable and aesthetically pleasing furniture. Initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic in a small village in Mytilini, Greece, this project reflects a commitment to sustainable design and the zero-waste movement. The designers were inspired to harness the abundant olive waste from Lesvos, an island with over 11 million olive trees, some centuries old, where olive oil production is a significant economic activity. The core of Koukos de Lab's innovation lies in its 'koukoutsi eco-material,' derived from processed olive pits. This material boasts properties such as durability, ease of application, and water resistance, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor furniture. Their inaugural product, the Lesvos Bench, introduced in 2020, showcased the potential of this eco-material. Since then, the design workshop has expanded its product range to include items like coffee tables and stools, all characterized by a minimal aesthetic and an earthy color palette. The project's genesis was influenced by the period of global slowdown during the pandemic, prompting Irene and Christos to engage in quality thinking and slow living. They established their business in a mountainous village surrounded by pine forests and olive groves, deeply connecting their work to their homeland's natural resources and traditional designs. This regional focus allows them to not only create unique pieces but also to promote local heritage and sustainable practices. Koukos de Lab's innovative approach gained international recognition at the 2020 London Biennale, where it was featured under the theme 'Design in an Age of Crisis.' This acknowledgment underscores the relevance of their work in addressing contemporary environmental challenges through design. The team emphasizes synergy as a key to their success, highlighting collaboration and shared knowledge as crucial elements in developing their special creations. The designers are continuously working on new designs, with plans to introduce additional products in the upcoming fall season. Their mission extends beyond furniture creation; it encompasses fostering a culture that minimizes waste and reconsiders the value of eco-waste in modern design. By transforming an agricultural byproduct into valuable, long-lasting products, Koukos de Lab exemplifies a practical and artistic solution to waste reduction while celebrating the rich heritage of Lesvos. #KoukosDeLab #OlivePits #SustainableFurniture #EcoFriendlyDesign #GreekDesign #ZeroWaste #MaterialInnovation #LesvosIsland #MinimalAesthetic

The Calanques National Park, stretching between Marseille and Cassis, is renowned for its turquoise coves and dramatic limestone cliffs, attracting significant tourist attention. However, north of Marseille, the less-explored Côte Bleue offers a more intimate coastal experience with its charming fishing villages and picturesque coves carved into the limestone hills. This region, also known as the "Blue Coast," features hiking trails connecting secluded ports and a scenic commuter train, the Train de Côte Bleue, which traverses 18 viaducts between seven villages. Despite the arrival of the commuter train in 1915, marked by heritage-tiled stations, the Côte Bleue largely remained a hidden gem, frequented primarily by local fishermen and residents, while other Marseillais often favored the more popular Cassis and Bandol. Interest in the Côte Bleue has grown, with some attributing this to Marseille's designation as the European Capital of Culture in 2013. A significant draw is La Pergola, a restaurant situated in Niolon, a cove on the Côte Bleue offering panoramic views of Marseille. Established in 1958, La Pergola was once a clandestine retreat but had, in recent years, become known for its stunning location rather than its cuisine. This changed in 2016 when Joaquim and Beatrice Piedade took ownership. The couple, experienced restaurateurs, revitalized the establishment while preserving its relaxed atmosphere. They refurbished the interior and the shaded terrace, from which the restaurant derives its name, and Chef Joaquim crafted a menu focused on fresh fish and local ingredients, prioritizing flavor over elaborate culinary techniques. La Pergola is distinguished by its customer-centric service, including all-day operating hours, a rarity in France. This approach has cultivated a loyal clientele of locals and visitors from Marseille and Aix. Chef Joaquim Piedade, who initially pursued accounting, transitioned to the culinary world, driven by a desire for the camaraderie he observed in local eateries. His extensive career spans three decades, encompassing training with a Michelin-starred chef, opening several restaurants in France, Île de Maurice, and Portugal, and working for major French culinary conglomerates. These diverse experiences provided him with comprehensive knowledge of both kitchen operations and front-of-house management. Drawing on his heritage as the descendant of Portuguese fishermen, Joaquim is dedicated to sourcing high-quality fish. He collaborates with Le Chalutier, a father-son fish merchant in Martigues, for a variety of fresh seafood, including sea bass, sea bream, John Dory, and flounder, and also purchases smaller catches from independent fishermen. The restaurant processes approximately 600 kg of fish weekly. Such fresh ingredients necessitate simple preparation, typically involving olive oil, salt, and fennel seeds, cooked on lava-rock grills. Seasonal specialties include swordfish, which Joaquim sources from larger, older specimens to support sustainable fishing practices. This swordfish is prepared either seared or smoked gravlax-style with beech wood, served with olive oil, grapefruit, and cornflower petals. Other menu highlights include meticulously prepared cuttlefish (sepia), frozen, cooked sous-vide, and seared on a plancha to achieve exceptional tenderness, served whole rather than in chopped pieces. Traditional Marseille dishes such as panisses (chickpea fritters), pieds et pacquets (stewed lamb's feet and tripe), and bourride (aioli-scented seafood stew) are also featured. A creative dessert, the savon de Marseille, offers edible “soaps” made from olive oil, butter, sugar, and hazelnuts, resembling decadent raw sugar cookie dough. Joaquim's accras (salt-cod fritters), based on his Portuguese mother’s recipe, are a nod to his family history and are served in generous portions, reflecting his upbringing. His three-part restaurant philosophy emphasizes prioritizing the client, maintaining meticulous organization and food safety, and fostering a passion for the work. His son, Max, manages the wine and spirits, and his daughter, Cassandre, assists with service, both embodying the family’s dedication to hospitality. Visitors to La Pergola can enhance their experience with a pre- or post-meal swim in Niolon's port or a walk along the Sentier de Douanier to the Calanque du Jonquier. #MarseilleCuisine #CôteBleue #LaPergolaRestaurant #FrenchSeafood #CulinaryTravel #MediterraneanCoast #SustainableFishing #FamilyBusiness

The article explores the allure of the Côte Bleue, a less-traveled coastal area north of Marseille, contrasting it with the more famous Calanques National Park. While the Calanques are renowned for their dramatic turquoise coves and limestone cliffs, the Côte Bleue offers a more intimate experience with its charming fishing villages nestled in blue coves, seemingly carved into the limestone hills. These secluded ports are connected by hiking trails, or travelers can opt for the scenic Train de Côte Bleue, which passes over 18 viaducts between seven villages. Despite the commuter train’s arrival in 1915, the Côte Bleue has maintained a low profile, historically favored by local fishermen over the flashier destinations like Cassis and Bandol. However, its appeal has grown, partly attributed to Marseille’s status as the European Capital of Culture in 2013, and significantly, to the revitalization of La Pergola restaurant. La Pergola, situated in Niolon with a prime view of Marseille, has been a local establishment since 1958. It transitioned from a spot for Marseille’s elite to a restaurant known more for its view than its cuisine. This changed in 2016 when Joaquim and Beatrice Piedade took over. The restaurateurs, drawn to the restaurant’s potential, undertook a complete renovation while preserving its relaxed atmosphere. They refurbished the interior and the restaurant’s namesake shaded terrace, creatively shaping the thick vines to frame the coastal views. Chef Joaquim developed a menu focused on fresh fish and local flavors, prioritizing delicious food over complex culinary techniques. A distinguishing feature of La Pergola is its warm and professional customer service, characterized by an all-day operational model, which is uncommon in France. This flexibility caters to a diverse clientele, from locals enjoying breakfast to tourists having celebratory dinners, and hikers stopping for refreshments. The restaurant boasts a loyal customer base, comprising locals, Marseillais, and Aixois, underscoring its success in building community and consistent quality. Joaquim Piedade's journey to becoming a chef was unconventional; originally an accountant, he was inspired by the camaraderie he witnessed in a local snack bar. He pursued a hands-on culinary education, working various jobs over three decades, including training with a Michelin-starred chef, opening multiple restaurants, and gaining experience in large French culinary conglomerates. Joaquim's Portuguese heritage, particularly his family’s history of fishing, fuels his passion for sourcing the freshest fish. He collaborates closely with Le Chalutier, a father-son fish merchant in Martigues, who supplies a variety of fish like sea bass, sea bream, John Dory, and turbot, and also acquires smaller catches from independent fishermen. Joaquim’s ability to source about 600 kg of fish weekly highlights his commitment to quality ingredients, which are then simply prepared with olive oil, salt, and fennel seeds on lava-rock grills. The menu features seasonal specialties, such as sustainable swordfish, prepared either as seared steaks or gravlax-style smoked slices with olive oil, grapefruit, and cornflower petals. The thoughtful preparation extends to dishes like seared cuttlefish, frozen and cooked sous-vide before being pan-seared to achieve an exceptionally succulent texture. La Pergola’s menu also pays homage to Marseille classics, including *panisses* (chickpea fritters), *pieds et pacquets* (a stew of lamb’s feet and tripe), and *bourride* (aïoli-scented seafood stew). A unique dessert is the *savon de Marseille*, an edible soap made of olive oil, butter, sugar, and hazelnuts, reminiscent of a decadent raw sugar cookie dough. The restaurant also features Joaquim’s mother’s recipe for salt-cod fritters, *accras*, acknowledging their Portuguese origin and generous portion sizes. Joaquim’s operational philosophy is structured around three core principles: client-first service, meticulous thoroughness in operations, and a genuine love for one’s work. The Piedade family, including their son Max and daughter Cassandre, actively contributes to the restaurant's success, embodying the restaurant's values of hospitality and dedication. Visitors are encouraged to explore the surrounding Niolon area, perhaps taking a pre- or post-meal swim in the secluded coves or hiking the Sentier de Douanier to the beautiful Calanque du Jonquier, further enhancing the coastal dining experience at La Pergola. #Marseille #CôteBleue #LaPergola #FrenchCuisine #SeafoodRestaurant #Niolon #CoastalDining #FamilyBusiness #SustainableFishing