John Gachot's playful and modern design for Bocce in New York's Union Square

Designed by Gachot Studios, Bocce is housed in the landmark pavilion building at the North end of Union Square in New York City, which has been transformed into a playful and modern gathering place that emulates a lively family home.

The structure, which was built in 1929 and originally served as a gathering place for demonstrations, was later used as a bandstand before being refurbished in 2011.

Composed of classic limestone, with columns and airy archways, it sits directly in front of the Union Square Greenmarket, which has been serving the public since 1976.

A fluid indoor-outdoor space with a large communal table at the centre of the restaurant, guests can enjoy the shade and a wonderful breeze inside the restaurant, dining at tables painted with a three-colour stripe, or sit outside at custom fabricated picnic tables, built in Brooklyn, under the chic black and white awnings.

The new shutters, painted in a pale green, recall looking out the windows of a classic Italian summer home. Hand-painted artwork designed by John Gachot accents the space throughout. The decorative painting on the glass chandeliers adds to the playfulness of the restaurant, while a monumental custom pendant welcomes patrons upon entering the restaurant.

Of course, the 3,100 sq ft eatery’s centrepiece is the bocce court, which invites players to channel their urban backyard fantasies.

With a neutral colour palette of black and white throughout the restaurant with subtle pops of colour, such as vibrant blue tones, and seasonal flowers from the neighbouring farmers market, Bocce has a nostalgic backyard style with an elegant, retro Italian twist.