The Diner – Photos by Michele de Candia courtesy of Surface Magazine.

Milan 2018 – Leading American design magazine Surface just turned 25 and, for the occasion, it teamed up with architect David Rockwell and design studio 2×4 to celebrate the on-the-road imprint of US culture with The Diner, an installation under the rough vaults of Ventura Centrale.

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“Diners have always been a home away from home for me and a place to observe people coming together. They are inherently optimistic mix of consistency, familiarity, and pioneering design.” Said David Rockwell, founder and President of Rockwell Group. 

A temporary restaurant on show under the rough vaults of Milan Central Station tunnels was divided up. At the entrance, visitors were welcomed by a seeting inspired by the iconic travel trailer offering coffee and pies. The front portion was coloured in shades of grey and decorated with metallic accents.

“There’s an inherent democracy in diners. Their design has to do with the counter – something we’re making very prominent,” Rockwell said.

Milkshakes were served in an East Coast–style luncheonette while a dedicated area paid tribute to Midwest diners. A fringe of curtain separated the monochromatic zone with a bright pink area in the middle, which then gave way to a tropical aesthetic towards the rear in a laid-back West Coast lounge concept.

At the back, a stage was set up to host talks and other programmed events during the week, flanked by plants and lounge seating. Some of the world’s most celebrated design brands have contributed to the project.

Spanish surfaces company Cosentino utilized its signature Silestone® quartz surface to create a 14-meter-long central bar, designed by Rockwell Group and the LAB at Rockwell Group. Furniture from American brand Design Within Reach is used throughout the space.

All photos by Michele de Candia – Courtesy of Jacob Peres and Cosentino.

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