Studio KKD were commissioned to design a new interior for Madeleine, a French-inspired patisserie and restaurant in Saudi Arabia. The challenge was to create a distinctive design language that captured the brand’s DNA while remaining sensitive to the identity of existing Madeleine restaurants across the Kingdom.

At the heart of Madeleine’s offer are refined patisseries and sweet treats, crafted from classic French recipes. To establish a strong creative foundation, we immersed ourselves in Parisian culture and architectural heritage, drawing inspiration from the Haussmann boulevards and gardens – their symmetry, elegant proportions, pastel tones and layered detailing all informed our design direction.

The customer journey begins at the exterior, where a rhythm of brass arches forms a façade that feels timeless in spirit yet contemporary in execution. Inside, the restaurant reinterprets Parisian heritage through a modern, ownable lens. Both floors feature decorative wall panelling, antiqued mirrored surfaces and brass accents, creating a sense of grandeur. This formality is softened by deep, curvaceous banquettes, low-level lamps and a variety of seating arrangements, ensuring intimacy, comfort and a dining experience that feels unique with each visit.

The palette is soft yet sophisticated, layered with tonal greens and pinks that appeal to a young, fashionable audience. These colours build on the brand’s existing interiors: darker heritage greens enrich the ground floor, while lighter, airy tones define the first floor, which extends onto a covered outdoor terrace.

Our scope encompassed the full guest journey – from façade design and terrace structure to interior planning, circulation and washrooms. We also worked closely with local architects and structural engineers to integrate back-of-house requirements, ensuring the kitchen and service areas function seamlessly.

The result is an elevated dining experience that balances impact and intimacy – a design of subtle grandeur that reflects Madeleine’s French identity while embracing a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.