The Mask: A Unique Cafe Design Inspired by Venetian Carnival

Bringing the Essence of Venice to Jeddah

After visiting the enchanting city of Venice during the Venice Carnival, renowned designer Mea'ad AlAbboud found inspiration in the colorful masks that make this event so unique. This inspiration led to the creation of The Mask, a one-of-a-kind coffee shop project in Jeddah.

The Mask stands out among other cafes in Jeddah with its luxurious black and gold interior design, inspired by the vibrant masks of Venice. Mea'ad AlAbboud aimed to capture the essence of both Venice and Jeddah, recognizing the similarities between these two cities. The result is a stunning cafe that combines the elegance of Venice with the vibrant energy of Jeddah.

The interior of The Mask spans approximately 300 square meters, with an additional outdoor area of 180 square meters. The single-floor design boasts a height of 4 meters, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere for patrons.

All materials for The Mask were sourced from the local market, while the furniture and decor elements were ordered from abroad. The Italian masks, a key design element, were brought directly from Venice and modified as needed to fit seamlessly into the interior.

The operation and workflow of The Mask were meticulously planned to ensure a smooth process. The interior furniture and accessories were ordered in advance, allowing for timely delivery and installation once the construction was completed. This careful planning, including detailed visuals and a comprehensive bill of quantities, contributed to the successful realization of the project.

The Mask project commenced in August 2022 and was completed in February 2023, with the fit-out phase taking approximately six months. Throughout the design process, Mea'ad AlAbboud faced the challenge of sourcing the Italian masks locally. The cafe's opening was delayed until the masks arrived from Italy, as they were considered a crucial design element. However, the wait proved worthwhile, as the masks now serve as a captivating backdrop for visitors' photos.

The Mask's unique concept and execution have garnered recognition in the design community. In 2023, it was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious accolade celebrates well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements, contributing to a better world.

With The Mask, Mea'ad AlAbboud has successfully brought the magic of the Venetian Carnival to Jeddah, creating a captivating and unforgettable experience for coffee lovers and design enthusiasts alike.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Mea'ad Al-Abboud
Image Credits: Image #1 Photographer Adel bin Afif, The Mask Cafe, 2023. Image #2 Photographer Adel bin Afif, The Mask Cafe, 2023. Image #3 Photographer Adel bin Afif, The Mask Cafe, 2023. Image #4 Photographer Adel bin Afif, The Mask Cafe, 2023. Image #5 Photographer Adel bin Afif, The Mask Cafe, 2023.
Project Team Members: Mea'ad AlAbboud
Project Name: The Mask
Project Client: Mea'ad Al-Abboud


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