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Step Inside Gigi Rigolatto’s Stunning New Dubai Beach House with Architect Hugo Toro

Gigi Rigolatto has touched down in the Middle East! After the success of its Paris, Saint-Tropez and Val D’Isère outposts, the much-loved Italian restaurant-meets-beach house has officially opened its doors in Dubai’s J1 Beach, promising a culinary experience like no other.

Photo: Courtesy of Gigi Rigolatto

Led by Rizwan Kassim, Gigi Rigolatto is among the most anticipated projects helmed by Rikas Hospitality Group and Paris Society. Highlighting the appeal of Italian food and culture, Gigi Dubai invites guests to have a taste of life’s pleasures in a retreat that embodies “La Vita Alla Grande,” or the idea of living “life to the fullest.”

Gigi Rigalotto

Photo: Courtesy of Gigi Rigolatto

Giving the space a healthy dose of charisma is, of course, the expertise of Franco-Mexican architect Hugo Toro, whose signature style has come to be known and loved across the globe. After breathing life into past editions of Gigi, the creative has created yet another haven in the UAE — one that carries the Gigi Rigolatto franchise’s undeniably free-spirited ethos, yet perfectly embodies Dubai’s more-is-more way of life. “The idea is to create a park of properties where the owner’s style is recognizable, but where each place has its own identity,” he tells Vogue Arabia. “The Dubai edition of Gigi is the only one with direct access to the sea, with an interior and exterior design that creates a truly unique relationship. We also twisted the codes of Italy with some Arabic codes, which gave life to a fusion of custom motifs. What makes Dubai unique is its urban and wild beach club vibe, which creates a unique alchemy.”

Gigi Rigalotto

Photo: Courtesy of Gigi Rigolatto

Photo: Courtesy of Gigi Rigolatto

No stranger to the art of building beautiful spaces, Toro’s journey with architecture began at home. “I have always been very hands-on, and my first exercise was drawing and building my treehouse in my mother’s garden,” he remembers. “It was my refuge and the beginning of my passion for both small and large spaces.” Over his lifetime, Toro has honed his design process to perfection, gleaning ideas from his surroundings with ease. “I like to think of spaces as unique theatrical pieces each time. I always start with a drawing in my notebook or on my iPad, and then ideas flow in my head,” he explains. “People inspire me a lot because they are the ones who will bring the place to life. I enjoy imagining their paths and how they will interact. I also like to give room for accidents in the layout; for example, in the garden of Gigi Dubai, a branch on your path will invite you to bend down and feel like you are in a living space.”

Gigi Rigalotto

Photo: Courtesy of Gigi Rigolatto

Gigi Rigalotto

Photo: Courtesy of Gigi Rigolatto

Bringing together soothing earthy hues, rustic pieces crafted from wood and jute, and unexpected floral elements, the look of Gigi Dubai compels visitors to adopt a slower pace and enjoy time away from their busy schedules. The menu is equally appealing, offering upseasonal dishes inspired by regions like Tuscany and Puglia.

Photo: Courtesy of Gigi Rigolatto

With seating for up to 240 guests, no group is too large for a day at Gigi. Guests are invited to relax by the pool on sun beds, or enjoy Gigi Dubai’s resident DJ in its many outdoor nooks — keep an eye out for the restaurant’s four exclusive cabanas, Ischia, Ponza, Capri, and Elba.

Photo: Courtesy of Gigi Rigolatto

For children, the Dubai edition of Gigi Rigolatto is also home to Gigi Circus, a kids’ club featuring all the makings of a dreamland. Think inflatable play areas, trampolines, gaming stations and water games. For the shopping enthusiasts, the Gigi boutique is a must-visit. Expect to discover more than 100 products from over 40 international brands, along with exclusive Gigi Dubai merchandise including scented candles and wicker bags.

Photo: Courtesy of Gigi Rigolatto

With its grand opening, Gigi Rigolatto at J1 Beach offers an unforgettable experience where luxury, style, and Italian influences come together. Whether for a delicious meal, a fun social gathering, or a family getaway, Gigi is the place to be in the heart of Dubai.

Below, take a quick tour through the sprawling space and discover some of Hugo Toro’s best kept decor secrets. 

Vogue Arabia: What are the key aspects you kept in mind while designing the space of Gigi Dubai?
Hugo Toro: Create a warm place. Ensure that the project is as strong in architecture as it is in landscape. Have warm and welcoming lighting. Incorporate a touch of relaxation and the unexpected.

Photo: Courtesy of Gigi Rigolatto

VA: Gigi Dubai seems to bring together a series of beautiful corners. Which space within it is your favorite and why?
HT: The idea is to create different dynamics and types of spaces within the same unit to adapt to everyone’s mood. I have a soft spot for the tables under the interior arches because you are in a high-ceiling space that is also warm, with brick vaults, zenithal lighting, and custom woven canopies that create contrasting and complex light.

VA: What are three major decor mistakes you wish people would avoid?
HT: Firstly, cold lighting, as it is difficult to live with overly white lighting that kills the atmosphere. Second, being confined to a single style and being afraid of mixing. Interiors should be alive and can be a mix of styles and eras! And lastly, not daring to use color.

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