Bringing the Alluring Adalina Brand to Life Through Thoughtful Design

Who designed Adalina? When the team approached Dunne Kozlowski about revamping their existing second-story space into an elevated dining experience reflective of the Adalina brand, we knew it would require reimagining how guests engage with and move throughout the space. Adalina exudes glamour, luxury, and sensuality, so we set out to create an environment with an intimate vibe where guests feel transported the moment they arrive.

Re-Choreographing the Guest Experience

Some of the biggest design challenges dealt with the existing layout. The entry lounge was open and unattractive, the massive bar created a visual barrier, and the space needed more energy and intrigue. Our first task was re-choreographing how guests would experience the space.

We closed off the entry lounge entirely to create a focused, monotone entry point accented by a statement light fixture over the host stand. The Adalina graphic we installed across the riser of each stair then naturally draws guests upstairs where the stunning two-story Adalina mural greets them.

The bar posed another challenge. Previously spanning the entire front window space, it obstructed views and created a lifeless, utilitarian feel. By scaling it back and building an anchoring wall, we transformed the bar into an inviting hub surrounded by seating and energy. This allowed us to open up sightlines to the elegant dining room beyond.

Thoughtful Touches Reinforce the Brand

With a circulation pattern conducive to our envisioned experience, we layered thoughtful design details to bring Adalina to life. The jewel-like lighting and metallic accents reflect Adalina's glamour. The indirect lighting casts a sultry glow. The tactile fabrics and leathers create an enveloping sense of intimacy and luxury.

The pièce de résistance is the stunning chandelier inspired by Adalina's signature rose, with flowers morphing into three-dimensional pendants descending at different heights over the space. The back-lit wallcovering depicts an alluring silhouette representing the mystery behind Adalina's hidden face.

Everything from the color scheme to furnishings ties back to the brand in subtle yet impactful ways. For example, we carried the rose motif into the carpeting and restroom wallcoverings. The mix of classic finishes and contemporary accents strikes the perfect balance between timeless and fashion-forward.

Secluded Spaces Evoke Exclusivity

A resto space lives and breathes based on flow and progression. So, we also created unique experiences within the experience. The private dining room provides an even more intimate, enveloping atmosphere with its dark, moody decor. Heavy drapes, rich textiles, and low-hanging lighting make this secluded space feel like an exclusive hideaway.

Downstairs, the former entry lounge is now accessed only by special permission, making it an alluring destination bar, the Rose Lounge, for VIPs. By inverting the circulation pattern, the lounge transformed from a space guests avoided into one they couldn't wait to access.

Dream Big, Design Bold, Deliver Joy

When you step inside Adalina, everything from the choreographed entry sequence to the sultry lighting makes you feel like you've entered a secret and magical world. We helped bring the alluring Adalina brand to life by turning design challenges into opportunities. The result is an elevated yet welcoming dining experience that delights all five senses and keeps guests returning.

Who Designed Adalina and Brought The Dream To Life

The Adalina team had a bold vision to create an elevated dining experience that brought sensuality and luxury to life. Their tireless commitment to excellence and enveloping guests in the Adalina world has earned widespread accolades, including awards for Best New Restaurant from Wine Spectator and Robb Report's Best New Restaurants. It's not about who design Adalina. Adalina's success illustrates what's possible when visionaries dream big, designers think boldly, and passionate restaurateurs deliver an experience that transports guests. Adalina continues to thrill locals and visitors to Chicago with its glamorous take on modern Italian dining.