- Interior
Nice Projects is a London-based design studio founded in 2020 by Simone McEwan and Sacha Leong. With extensive experience working with prestigious brands, retailers, and hospitality venues worldwide, Nice Projects focuses on creating unforgettable, sustainable interiors of the highest quality. Their designs combine attention to detail, comfort, and joy while celebrating culture and community. Each project gains unique depth, emphasizing humor, functionality, and playful aesthetics. ‘We are serious about creating special environments that are lighthearted and personal. Our interiors can be dramatic or subtle, uplifting or soothing, familiar or unexpected. They always work, feel welcoming, and remain memorable. In short, we make people happy.’
The Somma-project is a prime example. It is a refined Puglian restaurant housed in the historic former library building of the Nan Chiau School, part of the New Bahru complex in Singapore. The restaurant was developed by The Lo & Behold Group and chef Mirko Febbrile, who aims to present a contemporary interpretation of his Italian roots with Somma. The brief to Nice Projects was clear: create a space reminiscent of Puglia but avoid clichés. ‘We didn’t want to create a pastiche of Italian design,’ says co-founder Sacha Leong. ‘That’s why we designed many custom elements.’ The modern architecture with its eight-meter-high vaulted ceilings presented both challenges and opportunities. The two large vaults house a show kitchen, grill room, main restaurant, private dining room for eight, and a wine cellar. The table layout ensures that every guest has a view of the kitchen, where the culinary team can be seen in action. Upon entering, guests are welcomed at the show kitchen, where their dining experience begins with an amuse-bouche. The restaurant comprises two sections: a fine dining restaurant and a pasta bar, separated by an elegant staircase. Traditional Italian materials such as red travertine and gray marble were carefully combined for a timeless look. 
Crafting spaces that balance tradition and modernity with effortless elegance
One of the standout features is the handcrafted wall of 230 ceramic tiles designed by Puglian ceramicist Vincenzo Del Monaco. Each tile was hand-glazed and carefully arranged. Additionally, three handwoven rugs were created by Fondazione Le Costantine, an Italian atelier with a social mission. The private dining room features an antique pine table sourced from a monastery, paired with upholstered Font chairs by David Thulstrup. The bar, with its 14-meter-long, sinuous red travertine counter, functions as a pasta station, bar, and DJ booth. The travertine back bar subtly references baroque Italian furniture. In the lounge, velvet banquettes and linen sofas provide comfort, paired with leather armchairs and custom concrete tables. The fine dining area features marble tables, leather chairs, and glass pendant lights suspended from metal chains. Through the interplay of traditional materials, handcrafted artistry, and modern influences, Nice Projects has created a unique, timeless space that feels both refined and welcoming. Somma is an elegant reflection of Puglia’s rich heritage in a contemporary context.
Photography: Lisa Cohen & Interior Design: Nice Projects
Text by Ine Simons