Columbia Beach
LIMASSOL SEAFRONT
COMPLETED 2017
HOSPITALITY
PHOTO CREDITS - VICTOR HADJIKYRIACOU
Situated between the vibrant Limassol coastal road to the north and the sea to the south, this beachfront restaurant is designed as an extension of the city’s urban fabric while embracing its coastal setting. Building on the success of Columbia Restaurants—our client’s previous collaborations with our office—the design responds to a diverse program, creating a seamless transition between day and night.
Our brief for this project was to create a venue that integrates into the everyday urban context of Limassol town and make it accessible to different groups of people around the clock, from daytime bathers and beach lovers to business lunch guests and late night evening partygoers.
At the heart of the venue, an outdoor swimming pool serves as a focal gathering point and at the same time creating a subtle separation between the main restaurant and elevated bar area.
The entire street elevation on the North is clad with a tailor made screen that was designed in house from sections of aluminium curtain wall profiles to support the ceramic tiles. This gives a unified and calm approach from the busy street and transforms during the evening hours with subtle colour changing lights hidden behind the screen.
The main entrance is positioned off-center, connecting the two secondary buildings above. A large double timber screen allows operators to efficiently manage guest flow during peak hours, ensuring smooth entry and exit.
Working with an existing 1990s building, the design began by stripping back elements to expose the original structure, forming the foundation for the new spatial layout. New extensions incorporate exposed steel structures and fair-faced concrete, seamlessly integrating into the interior aesthetic.
In the same spirit, electrical and mechanical systems are left visible, enhancing the industrial feel, softened by colorful furnishings and curated artwork.
Large pergolas and existing vegetation provide natural shade, creating a cool dining environment in summer. Sliding glazed components and screens ensure the space adapts for comfortable, year-round dining.
Beyond the expansive glazed panels that front the restaurant lies an outdoor landscaped area, designed for visitors to enjoy their meals under a naturally shaded garden using local vegetation and an unspoilt view of the sea.
