Smorfia is a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional Italian pizzeria, inspired by the playful world of the Smorfia Napoletana—the symbolic imagery associated with Naples’ famous tombola game. The project merges southern Italian folklore with a modern Modenese setting, transforming the dining experience into a vibrant, immersive environment.

The design focuses on lighting, color, and spatial reorganization to create a lively yet intimate atmosphere. Warm, theatrical lights highlight the textures of the materials and evoke the convivial glow of traditional Italian gatherings. A dynamic palette—rich reds, deep blues, and golden accents—references the colorful language of the Smorfia while guiding the spatial rhythm and visual hierarchy.

Spatial reorganization was key to enhancing functionality and flow: the new layout improves connectivity between kitchen, bar, and dining areas, emphasizing openness and interaction. Custom lighting elements and graphic details subtly recall numbers, symbols, and imagery from the tombola tradition, turning the restaurant into a narrative space where culture, cuisine, and play coexist.

Smorfia is not just a place to eat—it’s a sensory celebration of Italian identity, humor, and collective memory, brought to life through design