Brasserie Barbotin, Marseille
In our seventh collaboration with the innovative Nouvelle Garde group, B3 Designers worked on the concept and interior design for Brasserie Barbotin.
Le Brief
Brasserie Barbotin marks the seventh collaboration between B3 Designers and the innovative Nouvelle Garde group, and their first venture in Marseille.
Nestled in the lively Cour Honoré d’Estienne d’Orves, just steps from the iconic Old Port, Barbotin celebrates Marseille’s energetic spirit and Mediterranean soul. The name itself nods to nautical equipment on a ship, echoing the city’s deep connection to the sea. Marseille, buzzing with visitors half the year, offers the perfect backdrop for this vibrant, produce-led brasserie.
Our brief was to bring together Provençal flavours, local traditions, and a playful, contemporary design to create a welcoming destination for locals and tourists alike.
The Spirit Behind the Design
The design of Brasserie Barbotin draws on the joyful, sun-drenched palette of Fauvism and the expressive energy of the Impressionists.
Our inspiration for the space blends these artistic influences with Marseille’s nautical heritage and Provençal spirit, to make the space feels vibrant, carefree, and a true celebration of southern French life.
Stepping Into the Restaurant
Guests are greeted by a large, sun-soaked terrace with pastel coral and pink striped awnings, lush planters, and signature Drucker chairs, inviting long and leisurely al fresco meals.
Inside, the former merchant warehouse space has been transformed while preserving its historic character, including exposed timber beams and local stone walls.
Nautical details, rope-inspired shapes, and stripe motifs weave through the interiors, paying homage to Marseille’s maritime roots.
The restaurant flows through multiple spaces – a welcoming left-side dining area with curved banquette seating, an open kitchen on the right (a signature of all Nouvelle Garde sites), and a striking central bar. Distressed walls and playful ceramic murals depicting sun-kissed Provençal vegetables further bring the story to life.
Designing to Serve 300 Guests
The unique circular bar, paired with a large banquette island, is designed to accommodate high volumes of guests both indoors and out (about 300 at a time), turning the entire space into a lively walking bar.
In the middle room, a dramatic double-height ceiling, wrap-around curtains and curated artwork inspired by Fauvism & Impressionists add warmth and personality.
True to Nouvelle Garde's style, we have incorporated an open kitchen for guests to enjoy an immersive meal. The bar is the most unique feature of the restaurant - a large space for staff to prepare drinks, with the front of the bar having circular banquette seating. We are so proud to be bringing this Nouvelle Garde concept to beautiful Marseille."
