Design Vision

London- and Sydney-based design firm Nice Projects shaped the interiors with a balance of minimalism and tactile materials inspired by southern Italy. Travertine, marble, leather, and handwoven textiles sit alongside bespoke ceramics and sculptural furniture, creating a setting that feels luxurious yet approachable. Vaulted ceilings and open layouts allow natural and artificial light to interact with surfaces, defining the character of each space.

Lighting is central to this narrative. Casambi’s wireless system provides full control over every zone, giving staff the ability to adapt the ambiance effortlessly. Tunable white lighting ensures the tone can shift seamlessly: cool, energizing illumination for lively afternoons, and warmer, softer hues to underscore the drama of evening service. Accent lighting brings out the textures of ceramic walls, timber counters, and pendant fixtures without overpowering the natural beauty of the materials.

Casambi in Action

Through the Casambi app, staff can select pre-programmed scenes or adjust lighting in real time. At Bar Somma, scenes highlight the cocktail counter, emphasizing the pouring, stirring, and glassware, while lounge areas remain gently lit. In the restaurant, scenes can spotlight individual tables or emphasize the plating of each dish, letting the culinary artistry shine while surrounding spaces stay softly illuminated. Time-based automation allows the lighting to evolve naturally throughout the day, moving from bright, energetic tones to intimate, contemplative warmth.

The system also provides flexibility for special occasions, seasonal menus, or changes in guest flow. Lighting adapts instantly, maintaining a polished, uncluttered environment while supporting the desired experience at all times.

A Layered Experience

With Casambi, lighting becomes an active partner in Somma’s experience. It highlights design details, enhances the presentation of each dish, and shapes the mood throughout the space, creating a seamless, immersive environment. Every sip, every course, and every interaction is elevated by lighting that feels intuitive, dynamic, and perfectly in tune with the rhythm of the venue. Somma succeeds as both a bar and a restaurant, offering a layered, sensory journey where design, cuisine, and atmosphere converge to create a truly memorable experience.