The Dover: A contemporary Art Deco haven in Mayfair

In the heart of Mayfair, London, the newly unveiled Dover restaurant is an exquisite blend of contemporary elegance and art deco influences.

This first solo venture by Martin Kuczmarski, former group COO at Soho House, brings a refined yet unpretentious atmosphere to the London dining scene.

GALLERY  

Designed by the Milan-based architecture studio Quincoces-Dragò & Partners, The Dover was meticulously crafted to exude a relaxed, seductive ambience.

Upon entering, guests are greeted by a fully glazed reception area, separated from the restaurant’s interior by a dramatic burgundy velvet curtain. As the curtain parts, a striking black-and-white chequered marble floor leads visitors through a series of dimly lit spaces, each one designed to be gradually unveiled. On one side of the corridor, a long bar, lined with brass lamp stands and shades reminiscent of wood veneer, sets the tone for the evening. Opposite the bar, open-plan seating and intimate banquette booths offer a variety of dining experiences.

The Dover’s interior design is dominated by rich wood panelling, which not only nods to tradition but also creates an intimate atmosphere throughout the space. The dining booths, enclosed by curved dark wood panelling, each feature a stunning Murano glass chandelier by Venini, adding to the luxurious feel. This curved motif continues into the main dining room, where the ceilings and corners echo the design, further enhancing the space’s elegance.

Quincoces-Dragò & Partners’ attention to detail is evident in every aspect of The Dover’s design. Velvet upholstery was chosen not just for its tactile appeal but also to manage acoustics, a fundamental consideration in crafting the restaurant’s ambience. The chequered floor, made from nero marquinia and calacatta marble, adds a visual softness to the space with its veined appearance, while red lacquered display cabinets and art deco glass sconces provide relief from the comprehensive wood panelling.

The design of The Dover is simple and straightforward at first glance, yet rich with intricate details that reveal themselves gradually. As Kuczmarski aptly put it, “The shape of the space has become part of the customer journey,” offering a unique dining experience that is both timeless and modern.

By working closely with Quincoces-Dragò & Partners, Kuczmarski has succeeded in creating a space that is not only welcoming but also makes a lasting impression on its guests, making The Dover a must-visit destination in London’s dining scene.

Images by Matt Russell, courtesy of The Dover via Dezeen

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