Afterlife: A Conceptual Thematic Restaurant in Downtown Dubai

Unveiling the Mysteries of Life Beyond

The entrance to Afterlife sets the stage for the extraordinary experience that awaits. A galley way, reminiscent of a mountain pass, leads guests through a wall adorned with burnt out candles and hanging crystals. Symbolizing the need to protect oneself from life's hardships, this immersive entrance creates a sense of anticipation and wonder. Stepping into the foyer, visitors are greeted by a towering dead tree trunk and a colossal log wood chair, symbolizing their arrival into the world of afterlife.

The main restaurant area is adorned with a collection of picture portraits, each capturing a different facial expression. These images depict the joys, sorrows, and missed opportunities of life. As guests dine, they are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences, remembering forgotten moments or reliving their most cherished memories. The hanging portraits also serve as conversation starters, sparking discussions and connections among patrons.

The centerpiece of Afterlife is its bar, meticulously carved out from a stone wall. This island bar represents the ever-evolving nature of life, with a serpentine light fixture suspended from the ceiling, symbolizing the continuous flow of time. As guests gather around the bar, they are reminded that life never stands still, and that every moment is an opportunity for growth and discovery.

Realizing the vision of Afterlife required a careful selection of materials that would evoke a rustic, earthy ambiance. Fibre reinforced plastic was used to create the stone wall panels and bar counter, while Indian sandstone with a slightly random pattern was chosen for the flooring. The deliberate gaps between the stones add an element of randomness, further enhancing the overall aesthetic.

Spanning 500 square meters of covered space, with an additional 150 square meters of open balcony, Afterlife offers a truly immersive experience. Located at Level 5, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, this conceptual restaurant captures the essence of life beyond, inviting guests to explore the mysteries that lie ahead.

Afterlife has been recognized for its exceptional design, receiving the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in 2020. This accolade celebrates the restaurant's well-designed, practical, and innovative concept, which seamlessly integrates industry best practices and competent technical characteristics. Afterlife is a testament to the power of design to create fulfilling and memorable experiences, contributing to a better world.