Al Molo is a fine-dining Italian restaurant in Malta overlooking the Portomaso Marina.  At the project’s inception, Ray DeMicoli was very aware of acoustical design being a common problem in most restaurants today. A loud nearby table is sufficient to make intimate conversation impossible. While restaurants are designed with practical, slick floors that can be easily cleaned, little attention is given to the use of soft furnishings, carpeting and drapery, so important to the muting of sound in large spaces.

Providing the suitable environment for intimacy as requested during the brief, DeMicoli & Associates were inspired to make use of portable lamps at every table which can be recharged daily and give a similar effect to that of candle light. On one wall, a series of horizontal wood strips playfully allows backlighting to filter through. On another, foam acoustic cladding, similar to that used in recording studios, was used on walls to mute the reflection of sound. White fabrics contrast with dark wooden chairs and parquet, while colourful abstract paintings act as a beautiful backdrop to the white washed walls. A high tech kitchen was custom made to suit its master chef’s exact requirements.
 
The restaurant was opened in December 2007 and quickly won over the respect of its patrons. It is known to offer authentic Mediterranean cuisine, fish dishes, and mouth-watering desserts, served in an elegant yet contemporary atmosphere.