PROJECTS & COLLABORATIONS → CIRCOLO POPOLARE
Circolo Popolare
By Big Mamma Group
DATE
2024
LOCATION
Madrid
Everything is over the top here... and that’s exactly the point.
Big Mamma, the group known for their wildly successful Italian eateries across Europe, has brought Circolo Popolare to the Picasso Tower in Madrid. At 8,000 square feet, this is their largest venue yet, following the acclaimed openings in London and Paris. We are delighted to have contributed as furniture suppliers to this ambitious project, which promises to be as extravagant and joyful as the rest of the Big Mamma family.
Big Mama's Philosophy
The Big Mamma squadra is made up of more than 2,200 women and men united by a passion for Italian food. Their single goal is to make every visit the highlight of your day. Each trattoria is designed with its own personality, but all share the same spirit: fresh pasta rolled by hand, Neapolitan pizza baked to perfection, creamy gelato made in-house, and all served with a generous dash of playfulness. Service itself becomes a performance, spontaneous and full of delight, turning each meal into an experience rather than simply a dinner.
Authenticity is at the heart of the Big Mamma philosophy. Ingredients are sourced directly from trusted Italian producers, many of whom have been with them since the very beginning. Beyond food, the group also embraces social responsibility, working with foundations across countries to help young people in vulnerable situations find employment and developing programs to fight food waste. The result is a restaurant experience that’s indulgent and joyful, yet rooted in genuine values.
The Interiors
Circolo Popolare Madrid spreads across two vibrant floors, each one designed to surprise and delight. On the ground floor, guests are greeted by a glowing “Ciao” sign rescued from a 1970s theater in Procida, setting the playful tone right from the entrance. Retro-futuristic touches abound, with communal tables for up to 30 diners, an open bar, and carefully curated vintage details. Upstairs, walls sparkle with over 2,000 vintage bottles, while an open kitchen lets the action unfold in full view. Leopard print fabric stretches across more than 650 feet of chairs and benches, adding just the right amount of eccentricity.
The design doesn’t stop there. A flower-filled outdoor terrace extends the experience under the Madrid sun. Every detail contributes to the atmosphere: Saarinen-inspired furniture, Olivetti artworks, Domus magazines from the 1950s, whimsical animal sculptures, funky tableware, mirrors that expand the space, and performative cooking moments. Think pasta poured straight from a hollowed cheese wheel or tiramisu served in cocktail glasses. It’s theatrical, immersive, and utterly unforgettable.
Kirkdale's contribuition
Our contribution to Circolo Popolare comes alive through the fabrics. All the seating has been upholstered in high-quality, eccentric, and elegant textiles that reflect the spirit of the space. Each fabric was chosen with one key word in mind: extra. Whether bold, playful, or refined, the upholstery ties together the eclectic interior, elevating every chair and bench into a statement piece of its own.
Among the many pieces, one deserves the spotlight: the gravity-balanced Ceska Chair. To embrace the restaurant’s playful spirit, we dressed her in three different versions, because sometimes one is simply not enough.
There’s the Goldie, fully wrapped in Gold Premium by Futura Leathers, radiating a sense of glamour. Then comes the Pinky, a daring combination of Neon Pink Manchu by Brentano on the backrest with Pivoine Marzac by Manuel Canovas on the seat pad. And finally, the Geometric Feline, upholstered in Fauve Tiger Beat by Dedar, a bold nod to the leopard prints scattered throughout the interior. Each chair brings a distinct personality, inviting guests to pick their favorite throne for the evening.
Circolo Popolare Madrid is a feast for the senses and a celebration of Italian joy. We are proud to have played a part in shaping such a magical place, and we can’t wait for you to experience it yourself. Whether you’re a local or just passing through Madrid, this is one spot that promises to stay with you long after the last bite.
Paseo de la Castellana 89, Pl. Pablo Ruiz Picasso, 1, 28020 Madrid, Spain
Opening Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 1:00pm to 4:15pm – 7:30pm to 11:15pm
Friday: 1:00pm to 4:45pm – 7:30pm to 11:30pm
Saturday: 12:45pm to 4:45pm – 7:30pm to 11:30pm
Sunday: 12:45pm to 4:45pm – 7:30 to 11:15pm
Featured Products
Big Mamma
Circolo Popolare