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    Muuto Project

    Esmé

    Located in Chicago, Michelin-starred restaurant Esmé embodies a unique vision that seamlessly integrates culinary excellence with artistic expression. At Esmé, you are invited to experience a fine dining journey unlike any other—a journey where art, food, and design converge to inspire and delight.

    The inception of Esmé stemmed from a shared passion for the arts and a desire to create a dining experience that transcends traditional boundaries. Co-founders Jenner and Katrina envisioned a space where fine dining could intertwine with the profound narratives of contemporary artists. This vision led to a collaboration that not only showcases artworks but also transforms them into integral elements of the dining experience. 

     

    “We both have a deep interest in the arts, Jenner draws inspiration from the artistic process of others, so it felt right when we began collaborating with our artist partners to find a way to fully and completely support them in the space. In fine dining and the arts, storytelling takes center stage so combining the two and bringing them together as a medium just felt right.” Jenner Tomaska and Katrina Bravo 

    At Esmé, the menu is more than dishes—it is a medium through which the stories and themes of featured artists come to life. Each culinary creation is thoughtfully crafted to mirror the essence of the accompanying artworks, offering guests a sensory journey that engages both their palate and imagination.

     

    “We truly hope they walk away seeing how interconnected the two are, and that the process an artist goes through to execute their work often mirrors that of a chef and their team cooking at this level.” — Jenner Tomaska and Katrina Bravo 

    The minimalist and gallery-like design of Esmé's interior plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall dining experience. Every aspect of the space, from the furniture to the subtle decor, is carefully curated to provide a serene backdrop that allows the art to take center stage. 

     

    “The space itself needed to act as a blank canvas, it was imperative that no matter what the medium or body of work the art would feel as if it belonged in the space. For us the design was about supporting the artwork and not detracting from it.” — Jenner Tomaska and Katrina Bravo 

    The curated selection of Muuto furniture by Esmé reflects a shared commitment to timeless design, quality, craftsmanship, and a new perspective on Scandinavian aesthetics. The functionality of Muuto's pieces complement Esmé's minimalist ambiance, creating a cohesive environment where every detail contributes to a seamless dining and artistic experience. 

     

    “Muuto's designs are straightforward and classic with modern undertones making it timeless – we wanted to ensure that the space would forever feel fresh and never dated.” — Jenner Tomaska and Katrina Bravo 

    Muuto's chairs, in particular, have become synonymous with Esmé's identity, offering comfort and style that enhance the overall guest experience and supporting the restaurant's mission to provide a harmonious setting for art and dining. 

     

    “For us, the Cover Side Chair and Nerd Bar Stool in both the dining room and in the bar have become synonymous with our restaurant. The simple design doesn't distract the guests from what is happening around them, while also providing immeasurable comfort.” — Jenner Tomaska and Katrina Bravo 

    Muuto's approach to Scandinavian design resonates perfectly with Esmé's ethos of blending tradition with contemporary creativity. Just as Esmé redefines fine dining through artistry, Muuto offers new interpretations of Scandinavian design principles, creating spaces that feel both timeless and refreshingly modern. 

     

    “I think Muuto's new perspective reminds me of what we do here, it has a more playful approach to what many might see as a serious genre; the current use of color and shape may not be what most expect when they think of Scandinavian design just as Esmé isn't what most expect from fine dining.” — Jenner Tomaska and Katrina Bravo 

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