Design Partnership, a leading South African interior design and architecture studio, has garnered international acclaim for its redesign of the Blue Marlin Restaurant at Beachcomber Paradis in Le Morne, Mauritius. Founded in 1994, Design Partnership has a dynamic team of more than 80 colleagues led by directors Adrian Morris, Richard Laws, and Carina Share.
Located on the beachfront, the Blue Marlin Restaurant is designed to attract both locals and tourists. It is a prime example of Design Partnership’s deep understanding of the human experience: knowledge they use to create spaces that meet the needs of their clients and customers. The success of the restaurant’s design is based on a celebration of Mauritian culture, offering guests an exceptional dining experience that is both immersive and memorable.
From the project’s inception, Design Partnership understood a simple truth: everyone wants to enjoy their food in a comfortable, stylish setting and, most importantly, people want a view of the ocean.
Reviving a storied legacy
The Blue Marlin Restaurant pays homage to the legendary blue marlin gamefish, once abundant in the waters of the Le Morne Peninsula. Over 70 years ago, the resort’s main jetty served as a gathering spot for fishermen to showcase their daily catches, creating a tapestry of stories and community. However, the restaurant’s connection to this vibrant history waned over time and the space became a generic dining area lacking a distinct identity. Recognising this disconnect, Design Partnership began to weave the area’s heritage back into the restaurant’s fabric, crafting a unique and immersive brand narrative.
Aquatic tales
The gamefish inspired the materials and textures: smooth timber surfaces with gently curved edges evoke the sensation of water gliding over the fish’s back. The interplay of textures adds depth and fluidity to the space, mirroring the marine environment. Curved arches at the main entrance, uniquely designed wine display cabinets, and carved nooks incorporate scale-like patterns, reinforcing the aquatic narrative. Suspended artworks, with hues of silver, white, and blue, resemble the blue marlin navigating through oceanic waters. The foyer features a layered installation capturing the intense motion of predator and prey, adding a dramatic flair to the entrance.
Honouring tradition
Beyond the fish, the design pays tribute to Mauritian heritage. The original building’s shingle roof architecture inspired the extension’s design that maintained the traditional aesthetic while enhancing functionality. Local artisans and craftsmen contributed bespoke features, infusing authenticity and locality into the space. The restaurant harmoniously blends innovation with tradition. Solitary and graceful, simple and enduring.
An award-winning setting for culinary delight
The redesign focused on creating a seamless flow and an engaging environment for guests through three elements: indoor-outdoor connection, a revamped entrance layout, and an open kitchen concept.
In the open-air ambience, guests can enjoy fine dining with unobstructed shoreline views and watch the chefs prepare their meals. Guests are guided to a seemingly casual fine dining experience, both engaging and transparent. With natural and organic materials and comfortable furniture, guests are encouraged to linger in this calm, relaxing space.
The Blue Marlin Restaurant was honoured with the Best Hotel Restaurant Award at the International Property Awards 2024, solidifying its status as a premier African dining destination. Following that, it progressed into the global awards and took home the internationally acclaimed winner status in 2025.
