Norwegian design firm Snøhetta has introduced Under, the first underwater restaurant concept in Europe. Spread across more than 5,300 square feet, the 40-person eatery welcomes visitors just off the southern coast of Båly, Norway. The structure is designed to fully immerse visitors in the marine environment and double as a research space.
The restaurant is housed within a 111-foot-long concrete monolith crafted to resemble a periscope. The rugged concrete shell will allow for the latching of algae and mollusks in an effort to establish an artificial mussel reef that will purify the water. Beyond an untreated oak entryway, visitors descend into a gray environment of raw concrete spread across three levels—a foyer and coatroom, champagne bar, and dining room—all linked by an oak stairway. Slightly curved walls are equipped with optimal resistance to the force of waves and water pressure, while a large panoramic acrylic window embraces the marine backdrop in the dining room. A vertical window in the champagne bar also frames sea views and infuses daylight.
Beneath muted lighting, terrazzo floors span the dining room, complementing the deep blue- and green-toned acoustic panels that reference the seabed and seaweed. The champagne bar evokes the shoreline with a warm palette of pink and orange. Bespoke furniture, including charred oak tables and angular seating, are installed alongside ceramic artwork.
