Close

Nordic Sophistication Meets Dubai Flair

Björn Frantzén and Paul Bishop craft a transformative dining experience at Atlantis, The Palm

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 Frantzen

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.

Studio Frantzen Dubai

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

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

Read more features here.

The Latest

Zaha Hadid Foundation launches scholars program

The Zaha Hadid Foundation partners with the American University of Beirut to support the next generation of architectural talent.

Zayed National Museum

Zayed National Museum to open in December 2025

The Foster + Partners designed striking museum will honour the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

Culture & Conversations

identity hosted a roundtable and workshop in honour of Emirati Women's Day in collaboration with Casamia

identity Design Awards 2025

identity Design Awards 2025 launches

identity is excited to announce its 11th annual identity Design Awards 2025.

Dubai Design Week is back in 2025

Taking place between 4-9 November, here's what we know so far about the 11th edition of the Middle East's leading design festival.

Abu Dhabi Bright

From cultural icons to world-class entertainment, this latest book by Assouline captures the many layers of the UAE’s capital

Bold and Experimental

This villa by C'est Ici captures the bold and vibrant personality of its owners

A New Urban Destination – The Gold

Located on King Salman Road, the 32,000m2 development will redefine leisure, dining and wellness in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province

The Art of Cooling

Gaggenau’s new refrigeration series blurs the line between architecture and appliance

Designing Movement

RIMOWA’s signature grooved aluminium meets Vitra’s refined design sensibilities

A Sense of Sanctuary

We interview Tanuj Goenka, Director of Kerry Hill Architects (KHA) on the development of the latest Aman Residences in Dubai

Elevated Design

In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Aseer region, DLR Group has redefined hospitality through bold architecture, regional resonance and a contemporary lens on culture at Hilton The Point