Ishbilia, London

B3 Designers conceptualised and designed Ishbilia - a contemporary reinterpretation of one of London's most iconic Lebanese restaurants.

The Concept

For more than three decades, Ishbilia has been a destination for authentic Lebanese dining in the heart of Knightsbridge. Known for its warm hospitality and loyal clientele, the restaurant has long held a respected place within London’s dining scene.

B3 Designers was commissioned to evolve the restaurant’s identity and interiors, creating an environment that reflected the quality, authenticity and heritage of the food while positioning the business for its next chapter.

A NEW CHAPTER FOR AN ESTABLISHED FAVOURITE

The restaurant already possessed something many hospitality venues spend years trying to build – a strong reputation, loyal customers and a distinctive identity rooted in authentic Lebanese cuisine.

Our challenge was to create an environment that matched the quality of the dining experience.

Drawing inspiration from Lebanon’s coastline, historic ports, craftsmanship and gardens, the new design introduces a more refined and contemporary expression of the brand while remaining true to its heritage.

INSPIRED BY LANDSCAPE, CRAFTSMANSHIP AND CULTURE

Every successful hospitality project begins with a story. For Ishbilia, that story was found in the landscapes and architectural traditions of Lebanon. The design draws on the colours of the Mediterranean coastline, the warmth of natural materials, traditional craftsmanship and the layered character of historic Lebanese spaces. These influences are interpreted in a contemporary way, creating an environment that feels sophisticated, welcoming and timeless.

THE ARRIVAL EXPERIENCE

The exterior was carefully reimagined to strengthen Ishbilia’s presence within one of London’s most prestigious dining neighbourhoods.

New finishes, planting, seating and detailing create a more confident and inviting street presence, helping the restaurant stand out while remaining respectful to its surroundings.

The result is an arrival experience that immediately communicates the quality guests can expect inside.

DESIGNED FOR GATHERING

The interior balances openness with intimacy.

A variety of seating arrangements create different dining experiences throughout the restaurant, from casual lunches and family gatherings to celebrations and special occasions.

Rich textures, carefully selected materials and layered lighting bring warmth and character to every corner of the space, ensuring that each table feels considered and comfortable.

THE ARABIC GARDEN

Towards the rear of the restaurant, the atmosphere becomes more intimate.

Inspired by the concept of the Arabic garden, this area introduces deeper tones, softer lighting and a greater sense of enclosure, creating an ideal setting for longer meals, celebrations and private events.

The space provides a distinct experience while remaining connected to the wider restaurant.

BRAND RESEARCH & IDENTITY

While building Ishbilia’s new brand identity, B3 Designers’ branding team carried out extensive research. We looked at the brand’s positioning, its philosophy, its USPs, its vision, and its clientele.

We created a strong, grounded brand identity that emphasises “sophisticated beauty,” utilising natural colours, soft greens, earthy tones, intricate patterns, and decorative frames.

We defined the typography, colour heirarchy, and applications on collateral including menus, menu holders, packaging, business cards, along with producing a librabry of patterns and bespoke illustrations.

EXTENSIONS AND WEBSITE

B3 Designers applied the brand identity further, redesigning and redeveloping the website for Ishbilia. The website presents all information a client may look for, with its design carrying the brand’s colours, style, and philosophy. B3 also supported Ishbilia with technical set up of emails and forms.

"The completed refurbishment respects the history of Ishbilia while creating a stronger platform for the years ahead. By bringing together branding, interiors, materials and guest experience into a cohesive whole, the project has transformed an established restaurant into a contemporary hospitality destination that remains unmistakably Ishbilia.