Universal Design Studio has proudly revealed its design of the eagerly anticipated Odette restaurant, located in the newly refurbished Singapore National Art Gallery.
Named as a tribute to chef Julien Royer’s grandmother, Odette was designed as an art piece in itself – an extension of the national art collection housed in the historic building.
The design for the space was conceptualised to complement the integrity of Royer’s dishes – delicate, refined and elegant. This celebration of craft is demonstrated through the use of natural, raw elements presented in a soft colour palette of natural timber and pink terrazzo marble, with nickel and brass accents.
The use of natural light and a bright palette offers a welcome departure from more traditional fine dining restaurants, where darker, heavier tones are a common design element. Universal Design Studio sought to achieve a refreshing end result, whilst also respecting the historic and iconic location – a colonial era, classical building that was formerly the Supreme Court House of Singapore.
The gallery’s original Corinthian columns are referenced via faceted columns in the dining room, as is the striking floor of the gallery lobby, through the use of Palladiana marble in the restaurant.
A key feature central to the dining experience is the glass-encased kitchen, where diners have the opportunity to witness the chefs at work. Universal Design Studio has also collaborated with Singaporean artist Dawn Ng to create a mobile centrepiece for the restaurant.