Celebrated restaurateur Tobias Funke - whose accolades include two Michelin stars, 18 GaultMillau points and 95 Falstaff points - opened his new restaurant "Multertor" in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the old town of St. Gallen in autumn 2023. Part of the new “Globus” department store, it is located on the ground floor of the monumental building designed by architects Forster and Heene in 1889. The restaurant seats 70 people inside and 100 outside.

The building at Neugasse 54 boasts a rich history and was at the forefront of the world-leading embroidery industry at the beginning of the 20th century. The Embroidery Exchange at Multertor served as a meeting place where professionals from the embroidery and flat-stitch weaving industries met twice a week to conduct business and exchange the latest news. The Swiss Union Bank also had its headquarters at the Multertor.

The history of the city of St. Gallen and the building,, as well as the culinary concept with its traditional references, were to be reflected in the design concept. This project was collaboratively developed and implemented by Daniel Hunziker Design Identity and Studer Innen & Architektur. The holistic design assignment encompassed the restaurant's corporate identity, logo, website, menu, and signage, as well as the interior design, spatial concept, and furniture selection. In addition, the partners managed all technical aspects of the interior architecture and oversaw the entire construction process.

The design process began with an in-depth analysis of the project's DNA, focusing on its integration into the St. Gallen region and its embroidery heritage, as well as the values of the exclusive landlord, Magazine zum Globus, and the esteemed tenant, Tobias Funke. These insights were then transformed into a narrative and integrated into mood boards.

The material concept focuses on oak, marble, tiles, glass and brass - materials that resonate with tradition, quality and exclusivity, and that set the stage for the distinguished atmosphere of the "Multertor" restaurant. At the heart of the restaurant is the seven metre long marble bar, which combines aesthetics and functionality.

The ceiling is also an eye-catching feature, serving multiple functions: soundproofing, privacy and lighting. The multi-functional design, with a recognisable reference to traditional St. Gallen embroidery, uses felt made from recycled materials. The historic pattern was designed by illustrator Massimo Milano, who also painted the large murals.

The colour scheme of the restaurant - shades of grey, dark brown, gold and dark green - underlines the exclusivity and elegant flair of the "Multertor" restaurant, weaving together a narrative of luxury and tradition. T

he interior is furnished with classic tavern chairs, some of which have been restored, adding to the charm of the place. The walls are painted in a specific Pantone colour, adding to the sophisticated ambience.