In October 2024, Atlantis, The Palm welcomed Studio Frantzén – Social Dining & Bar, the highly anticipated Middle Eastern debut from Michelin-starred chef Björn Frantzén. Intertwining gastronomic artistry with immersive design, the restaurant offers an experience where storytelling in flavour and outstanding visuals collide.
To create this atmosphere and environment, Frantzén worked with Paul Bishop, founder of the award-winning studio Bishop Design. Occupying a substantial 400 square metres, the restaurant encompasses a main dining area, a stylish bar, a whimsical candy room and a private dining space. Each zone is distinct yet seamlessly connected, forming a cohesive narrative that merges Frantzén’s Nordic-Asian culinary ethos with Bishop’s signature’s flair. Bishop Design’s concept draws inspiration from Nordic landscapes, blending natural textures with opulent details to balance the vibrancy of Dubai with Scandinavian serenity. The result is an environment that bridges a casual, à la carte dining experience with a deeply immersive ambiance. “Björn’s focus on authenticity and connection resonates with our approach to design,” says Paul Bishop. “Every element in Studio Frantzén is about reinforcing a narrative that reflects his culinary journey. It’s a space that speaks as profoundly as the menu.”
Studio Frantzén’s interiors celebrate Nordic heritage through an enchanting design language. The material palette integrates warm copper accents, reminiscent of Scandinavia’s mining history, placing them alongside terrazzo-tiled floors that dissolve into moss-inspired carpeting – an homage to woodland journeys. A stunning candlelight chandelier illuminates the main dining area, a poetic nod to Scandinavia’s reverence for light during its dark winters. Handcrafted details infuse the space with bespoke charm, while textures and finishes bring a layered richness to the interiors.
At the entrance, a striking bear sculpture – a playful reference to Frantzén’s first name, which means ‘bear’ in Swedish – sets the tone for the experience ahead. This emblematic feature embodies a whimsical yet sophisticated spirit, welcoming guests into a realm where every detail tells a story. Nordic design elements such as wooden screens and artfully curated accessories are reimagined with contemporary flair, creating an interplay between tradition and modernity.
This visionary project is a true collaboration between Frantzén and Bishop, who share a commitment to pushing boundaries and crafting immersive experiences. “Working with Paul has been transformative,” says Frantzén. “He has taken our vision for the guest experience and translated it into a design that feels deeply connected to our brand while introducing an element of surprise.”
With key partners like Al Tayer Stocks (contractor), Turner & Townsend (project manager), Studio N (lighting) and Vision Furniture & Decoration Factory (furniture supplier), Bishop Design was able to bring the design vision to life.
Studio Frantzén is just the beginning of Björn Frantzén’s journey in Dubai. Following its debut, the neighbouring FZN, a distinct dining concept, opened on 8 November. While accessible via Studio Frantzén, FZN will operate as an independent venue, offering an elevated culinary experience that cements Frantzén’s place in Dubai’s gastronomic landscape.
Images by Natelee Cocks
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