Upon receiving the design brief from the Gelato Mania group, I was given an exciting level of creative freedom. The only guiding principle was to elevate the brand from their Cape Town roots, infusing a European and Mediterranean flair into their new Johannesburg stores. Each location in this new expansion would draw inspiration from a different European region, making every store a unique destination.
For Gelato Mania Waterfall, I was inspired by the charm of southern Italy and the timeless elegance of Italian design from the 1960s. This influence shines through the terracotta and white floor tiling, a contemporary nod to the classic floors found in old Italian villas, and a true focal point of the space. Warm wall cladding further evokes the cozy ambiance often felt across Europe.
Suspended above, red and white pinstripe ceiling baffles bring to mind an idyllic Italian summer, conjuring images of shaded terraces and leisurely afternoons under striped umbrellas – perfect for savouring a scoop (or two) of gelato.
As in all my designs, lighting and decor are paramount. Warm, inviting lighting sets the tone here, highlighted by two wall lights crafted from red and white pinstripe fabric with brass accents. These fixtures lend a playful yet sophisticated European touch.
To complete the look, curated décor elements transport visitors to an Italian town square. A central olive tree offers a natural focal point, while timber frames featuring Italian art and phrases, along with playful, organic objet, enhance the space’s Mediterranean charm. From the moment you step inside, Gelato Mania Waterfall invites you into an Italian escape, blending old-world elegance with a fresh, contemporary feel.
Written by Giorgio Tatsakis
