The Kaigan Sushi Bar project within the Mangia’s Torre del Barone Resort proposes to enhance a room adjacent to the main bar and its terrace overlooking the Strait of Sicily. Deeply rooted in its context, it pays homage to Isula Firdinandea, which emerged in 1831 directly opposite the town of Sciacca following an underwater volcanic eruption. Captured by the English fleet, the island, eroded by the waters, quickly dismantled until it now sits approximately 6 meters deep, leaving Sicilians, and especially the people of Sciacca, a priceless legacy: Sciacca Coral. From the slopes of the underwater volcano, Sciacca Coral presents unique characteristics that distinguish it; its orange-pink color and brown spots testify to its volcanic origins. This context, combined with the strong presence of local artists and artisans in the area, shaped the project’s design and material choices. The dark ambiance, the wall paneling, the contrasting colors of aquamarine and coral, the circular shapes of the mirrors, and the brass of the metal finishes range from the simplicity of a contemporary bistro to the austere gloom of a forecastle. The natural lava stone flooring (Nero Sicilia) alternates coral-colored glazes with matte and glossy decorations and reflects the surface of a rippling night sea, bouncing glimpses of the netting on the ceiling and the greenish reflections of the cushions (Trabà). The natural brass lights are handcrafted by a bronze worker (Alessandro), and the nets themselves are hand-woven by an artisan from the port of Sciacca (Accursio). Acting as a backdrop to the internal table layout, an art installation developed in collaboration with a local artist (Michele) plays on the shapes and colors of Sacca coral through the potential of an ancient and consolidated local craft: ceramics.

Kaigan Sushi Bar
Mangia’s Torre del Barone Resort, Sciacca (AG), Italy

Interior Design Studio VAN (Alessandro Agosti, Maurizio Nigro)