Cafe en Seine: A Parisian-Inspired Revival

Revamping Dublin's Iconic Bar with Millimetre Design

A total of seven distinct eating and drinking areas have been created, each offering customers a unique experience. From a Parisian-inspired indoor street adorned with 7-meter high trees and a retractable roof, to a grand bar with an impressive 8-meter high mosaic ceiling and oversized pendants, every corner of Cafe en Seine is designed to captivate. The attention to detail and the scale of the offer make this design truly exceptional.

The transformation of Cafe en Seine involved not only redesigning the interiors but also reimagining the brand identity. The project also focused on improving the flow of people and enhancing the overall customer experience. The result is a space that is functional, flexible, and interchangeable, allowing for seamless operation and accommodating up to 300 seated guests at the same time.

Cafe en Seine, located at 39 and 40 Dawson Street in Dublin, is a protected structure spanning 1,900 square meters over four floors. The new design features 8-meter high ceilings, indoor and outdoor spaces, and a retractable roof. With two entrances, five bars, a restaurant, smoking terrace, two kitchens, and four sets of bathrooms, the venue has a capacity of 1,100.

The design process for Cafe en Seine began in July 2017, with onsite work commencing in June 2018. After months of meticulous planning and execution, the venue reopened in late November 2018, delighting patrons with its new ambiance and offerings.

Millimetre Design conducted extensive research, including visits to renowned venues in the UK, Spain, USA, and Paris, to gather inspiration and best practices. The design team also collaborated closely with the client, external consultants, contractors, and suppliers to ensure the feasibility and success of the project.

Overcoming the challenges posed by the size of the building and its long, narrow spaces was a key aspect of the design process. The team successfully opened up the space, introduced more natural light, and created an atmosphere of softness and opulence during the day, transitioning to a high-energy ambiance at night.

The revival of Cafe en Seine has been met with great acclaim. In 2019, the design was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This recognition highlights the exceptional creativity, technical skill, and contribution to quality of life that the design embodies.

Cafe en Seine's transformation stands as a testament to Millimetre Design's ability to breathe new life into iconic spaces, creating memorable experiences that blend art, architecture, and innovation.