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Marlow : so chic, so british

Published on December 11, 2024Updated on December 26, 2024

In the heart of Mareterra, the new six-hectare district reclaimed from the sea – is now home to the Marlow café-lounge; a warm and sophisticated venue with a touch of the eccentric.

Interior design by Hugo Toro

Spanning over 300 square metres on the ground floor, with a 100-square-metre terrace and a basement of about the same size, the atmosphere at Marlow starts off peaceful. As the hours slip by, it becomes reflective, friendly, then joyful when the party gets going and continues into the night. The architecture and interior design were entrusted to the exuberant and talented Hugo Toro.

The thirty-year-old of  French and Mexican origin is the mastermind behind the interior design for Gigi, Perruche on the roof of the Printemps Homme department store in Paris, La Table des Pins and the Hôtel Mas Candille in Mougins, as well as the Midland Dining Room and the Gothic Bar in London.

For Marlow, his idea was to build a central bar in beautiful natural materials, surrounded by warm colours, light marble and cosy furniture. Decorative objects including art books and biographies of English lords set an authentic tone.

Renders Bar Central Marlow

The elegant and sassy Lady Marlow

One man heads up the venue and makes sure British elegance prevails: Bryan Gaillard. He studied in Paris but has mainly worked in famous clubs and restaurants in London. As host, he welcomes guests as though they have been invited by a charming and quirky lady. Because the story of Marlow (named after the English town on the banks of the Thames) is about hedonism in all its forms. Elegance flirts with impertinence. Nothing can resist Marlow’s charms… Guests can enjoy in the relaxed atmosphere over an English breakfast savoury or sweet – either in the dining room or on the terrace, stretching to brunch on lazy Sunday mornings. At lunchtime, the daily special is a typically British experience, perhaps a lobster roll served with a glass of champagne. But local Mediterranean products are also on the menu. Later, teatime brings an opportunity to curl up in a comforting armchair and simply unwind. In the evening, after sipping on a delicious cocktail or aged whisky, it’s time to enjoy a flavourful dish or two. A take-away menu is available for those who prefer to invite Marlow into their homes.

Renders Salle Principale Marlow

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