Bishop Design has masterfully elevated the dining experience at Carna, an iconic contemporary steakhouse and immersive meat haven curated by renowned Italian butcher, Dario Cecchini.

In an ingenious approach, Bishop Design embraced Carna’s “use everything” philosophy, reimagining and repurposing existing features to breathe new life into the venue while maintaining its familiar essence. The goal was to present guests with a refreshing take on the familiar, an evolution that seamlessly marries novelty with the comfort of the known.

One notable transformation in the design journey involved bidding farewell to the open ceiling adorned with leather knife-sharpening belts that once framed exposed pipes. In its place, a more sophisticated aesthetic emerged with the introduction of a coved ceiling. This new design element, encircling a recessed mirror that once adorned the bar area, now commands attention as a central feature in the main dining space. Despite these changes, the design preserves the original narrative through a harmonious blend of pre-existing colors—deep reds and browns, symbolizing the richness of blood associated with butchering, and reinforcing the overarching story.

The metamorphosis of Carna has become a sensation at SLS, demonstrating Bishop Design’s strategic approach to the assignment. Recognizing the wisdom in not fixing what isn’t broken, the redesign results in a refreshed and cosy ambiance that seamlessly weaves together contemporary elegance, sophistication, and timeless charm.

Reclaimed components, including wooden wall panels, green tiles artfully arranged in a herringbone pattern, and rustic brass finishes, set the stage for breathtaking views across Dubai through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. The once-green fabric booths and banquettes have undergone a stunning transformation, now draped in opulent red velvet, fostering harmony between spaces. In a nod to pre-existing industrial elements, the flooring transitioned from wood to concrete tiles, while cracked leather upholstered chairs and brass table bases retained their place, enhancing the distinctive blend of rugged and meticulous elements. Bishop Design’s thoughtful redesign has breathed new life into Carna, creating an immersive and visually stunning dining destination in the heart of Dubai.

Architect: AEDAS

Interior Designer: Bishop Design

Hotel Group/Developer: SLS/Accor

Construction: Gunal Construction

Photography: Alex Jeffries

Bishop Design have been selected as a finalist for The design et al Elite Awards 2025. 

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