A Fresh Vision for Abu Dhabi's Iconic Retail Destination
Marina Mall — Abu Dhabi
Monolith undertook the full renovation of the communal dining and lounge area within Marina Mall, one of Abu Dhabi's most iconic retail destinations — delivering a vibrant, contemporary public space that breathes new life into the mall experience through bold colour, playful geometry, and a striking tropical design identity.
Client:
Marina Mall — Abu Dhabi
Re-imagining the Future of Space
Idea
The renovation concept was built around a single bold idea: transforming a standard mall food court into a destination space that visitors actively seek out. Monolith responded with a tropical urban aesthetic large-scale monochrome palm-leaf murals wrapping the full perimeter of the circular space, a geometric hexagonal tile floor in layered grey tones, and a vibrant palette of teal, mustard, sky blue, and sage that brings energy and warmth to every corner. The bespoke white powder-coated steel arch pergola structures — running in parallel rows down the length of the space create a sense of arrival and journey that makes the space feel curated and intentional.
Conceptualization and Planning
Design Process
The spatial strategy for the all-day dining area prioritised flexibility and flow — a layout that accommodates high-volume breakfast service, casual all-day dining, and evening social gatherings without feeling crowded or static. The double-height volume was maximised through a dramatic lighting design featuring a sculptural white pendant installation, integrated track lighting, and the signature backlit green columns that serve as the visual anchor of the space. A large-format sports media wall and open bar counter were positioned to create natural focal points and encourage guest engagement.
Implementation and Styling
Design Process
The circular spatial layout presented both a challenge and an opportunity. Monolith used the room's natural geometry to create a symmetrical arrangement of seating zones banquette clusters, café-style tables, and lounge sofas all framed by the arching pergola structures that draw the eye from the entrance through to the far wall. The tensile canopy above diffuses natural light evenly across the space, while the bold mural backdrop creates a strong visual anchor that gives the room a clear identity from every angle.
