Sculpting Elegance: Fernando Oriol’s Art Brings Binomio’s New Look to Life

Published on February 12, 2025 | by DSGN arcHive

This Spanish restaurant is turning heads in Singapore, and we went behind the scenes to find out why. Read on…

Can a restaurant’s design be as captivating as its cuisine? At Binomio’s new home in Raffles Singapore, the answer is a definite yes. Sculptor Fernando Oriol brings the space to life with his striking brass creations—grapevines in the wine cellar, sweeping banana leaves, and delicate magnolia foliage. These sculptures add effortless elegance, blending seamlessly with the refined yet organic interior. But they do more than just decorate; they set the tone. Every detail matters. The intricate veins, the way light dances on the surfaces, and the rich textures create a dynamic, multi-sensory experience.

We caught up with Oriol to learn more about his inspiration and how his pieces enhance Binomio’s signature aesthetic.

But first, let’s take a quick look at the artist behind the work…

About Fernando Oriol

Fernando Oriol has a rare gift—he turns metal into art that feels alive. Inspired by nature, he combines precision with a sharp eye for detail. His sculptures, as delicate as botanical jewellery, capture the beauty of the natural world. Using iron, brass, and corten steel, he plays with contrasts. The weight of his materials meets the softness of real foliage, creating a striking balance.

His work has taken him across the globe, with exhibitions in Capri, Miami, and Zurich. But for Fernando, it’s never just about the final piece—it’s about the journey. When he sculpts, time fades. Day blends into night. Some of his creations weigh over 800 kilos, yet they still feel light, full of movement and life. His intricate metalwork continues to inspire collectors, designers, and art lovers everywhere.

From the artist himself

What was your creative inspiration behind the brass sculpture, and how did you ensure it complemented the overall design concept of the restaurant?

Fernando Oriol: “The inspiration for the sculptures at Binomio came from the natural world, particularly plant forms that evoke a sense of connection to nature. The pieces featured at Binomio’s new home include a grapevine within the wine cellar and a variety of banana leaves, kentia palms, monstera leaves, and magnolia leaves adorning the terrace. These choices were influenced by discussions with the interior designers and proprietors of the restaurant. The brass finish was selected for its ability to exude both rustic charm and opulent sophistication, perfectly aligning with Binomio’s warm yet luxurious aesthetic. Every detail, from the curves of the leaves to the intricate veins, was meticulously crafted to seamlessly integrate into the restaurant’s design while serving as a striking artistic statement.”

How do you hope diners will interact with or interpret the sculpture as part of their experience at the restaurant?

Fernando Oriol: “My hope is that diners feel as though they are immersed in an environment where nature and art come together harmoniously. The sculptures are designed to mimic the essence of real plants, with a focus on craftsmanship that highlights their naturalistic textures and forms. Diners are encouraged to observe the way light interacts with the finishes, bringing out the golden hues and creating an ever-changing visual experience. By incorporating these sculptures into the dining space, I aim to enhance the overall atmosphere, offering diners not just a culinary journey but also a sensory one, where art elevates their experience and leaves a lasting impression of originality and beauty.”

About the interior design of Binomio

Asifur Chowdhury, Director: “Binomio’s interior design at Raffles Singapore reflects a seamless marriage of nature-inspired artistry and timeless elegance.

The standout feature is the integration of Fernando Oriol’s sculptures, which were created in close collaboration with the interior designers to ensure a cohesive aesthetic. These intricate works, include grapevines in the wine cellar and tropical foliage in the terrace planters. These details evoke the lushness of nature while being crafted from durable steel with unique finishes, such as rust and green patinas, that enhance their lifelike appearance.

The design team aimed to create a space where art and function coexist. Every detail, from the subtle veins on the sculpted leaves to the interaction of light with the sculptures’ textures, was carefully planned to enhance the overall dining atmosphere. The result is a dynamic yet understated environment that feels deeply connected to its natural and historical context. This provides diners with a sophisticated yet inviting space that complements Binomio’s celebrated culinary offerings.”

And that’s a wrap! A big thank you to Fernando Oriol and Asifur Chowdhury for sharing their incredible insights with us. Curious to see more of Fernando’s work? Click here to explore some of his best pieces.

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About DSGN arcHive

DSGN arcHive is your exclusive key to unveiling the enigmatic essence of a city, all filtered through the prism of design. Far from the ordinary tourist paths. We reveal the city’s architectural marvels, urban intricacies, cultural tapestry, and eco-conscious revolutions that mold its distinctive soul. With us, you’re invited to savor the metropolis in an entirely chic and sophisticated light, a city that’s far more than what meets the eye.