Palma
by Bishop Design

Bishop Design has played a pivotal role in the transformation of the esteemed Al Areen Palace & Spa, now rebranded as Raffles Bahrain under the management of the renowned hospitality brand Accor. The extensive renovation aligns with Accor’s vision to redefine luxury hospitality in Bahrain.

Bishop Design’s engagement focused on the redesign of three key dining outlets within the hotel: a grill, a signature restaurant, and Palma—an all-day dining experience. This project offered a unique opportunity for collaboration with sister company Rogue, bringing together expertise in concept creation, branding, and interior design.

The envisioned concept for Palma aimed at a contemporary reflection of heritage. The narrative was to craft a visually dynamic space for all-day dining, deeply rooted in tradition and heritage yet presented with modern interpretations. The design represents a hybrid of these sentiments, incorporating various influences that have shaped the region over time, resulting in an immersive and authentic experience.

Palma, designed to be approachable throughout the day, from breakfast to lunch and into the night, creates a versatile and dynamic space for patrons to interact with. The design strategy focuses on a naturally lit ambiance during breakfast and lunch, transitioning to soft artificial lighting in the evening, allowing for a transient space that accommodates various experiences.

At the heart of this Mediterranean establishment stands an olive tree, commanding attention and surrounded by adjoining booths. Serving as a majestic centerpiece, it evokes a sense of reverence, akin to a cherished ritual. Beyond its decorative role, the olive tree symbolizes the profound significance of olive oil in the Mediterranean diet—a celebrated emblem of health and longevity, echoing the rich cultural heritage celebrated in Bahrain. Bishop Design has succeeded in creating a space that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering an exceptional dining experience at Raffles Bahrain.