THE HIDDEN DRAM – Mamma Roma Whisky & Wine Room
Client Intro
This project was for a long-standing client I have worked with for over a decade, designing multiple restaurants as well as his private home. Over the years we’ve built a strong relationship rooted in trust and a shared appreciation for design-led spaces that deliver both emotionally and commercially.
This particular project held deeper meaning. Inspired by his late father, the client had always envisioned creating a dedicated whisky and wine room within the restaurant — a space that would feel special, personal, and something he could truly be proud of.
Project Scope / Client Brief
The brief was to transform an underused and dated area of the restaurant — largely unchanged since the 1980s — into a space with its own distinct identity. It needed to feel more intimate and elevated than the main dining area, offering a premium yet relaxed environment where customers could linger.
Located next to Edinburgh’s Playhouse, the space also needed to work effortlessly for both pre-theatre drinks and more atmospheric, late-evening experiences. It wasn’t just about creating another room — it was about creating a destination within the restaurant.
The Property Challenges
The existing space lacked identity and had clear physical limitations, with minimal opportunity for major structural change. It had previously been used as an overflow dining area, so it needed to be completely reimagined both visually and functionally.
The challenge was to create a strong, immersive atmosphere without rebuilding the space — relying instead on detail, materiality, and lighting. It also needed to balance flexibility, accommodating both intimate moments and small groups, while ensuring efficient service flow behind the scenes.
Our Interior Design Solution
This is where the transformation really comes to life.
We focused on creating a rich, cocooning atmosphere through layered lighting, tactile materials, and a more enclosed layout that immediately shifts the mood from the main restaurant. A bespoke mirrored ceiling feature sits at the heart of the space, amplifying light and depth, with integrated LED lighting allowing the atmosphere to evolve effortlessly throughout the evening.
The bespoke bar and display were designed to celebrate the whisky collection — which now exceeds that of The Balmoral Hotel — positioning the space as a destination for whisky enthusiasts while remaining warm and accessible.
The result is a space that feels intimate, memorable, and quietly elevated — one that encourages guests to stay longer, return often, and experience something just a little bit special.
