In the heart of Charlestown, Massachusetts—framing the edge of City Square Park—Prima Italian Steakhouse invites diners into a space that feels steeped in history, warmth, and authenticity. This intentional atmosphere is no accident. It’s the result of Assembly Design Studio’s storytelling-driven approach to restaurant interiors—where every material and finish is a character in the narrative.

A Design Studio with a Storytelling Soul 

Based in Boston, Assembly Design Studio brings cinematic vision to each of their hospitality projects. “We take each project on as if we are producing a movie,” they shared. “Each one is a little different, and we wouldn’t want it any other way.” Their philosophy centers around designing not just environments, but experiences—where every inch of a restaurant contributes to the story being told. 

With over 60 restaurants in their portfolio, Assembly has a reputation for creating layered, lived-in spaces that are as memorable as the meals they serve.

Setting the Scene at Prima 

For Prima Italian Steakhouse, the story was all about timeless elegance—a restaurant that felt like a long-standing institution in one of Boston’s most historic neighborhoods. “We wanted to create a restaurant that felt like it had been there for ages,” they explained. “Something worthy of its prime location in a gorgeous building at the gates of historic Charlestown.” 

To achieve this, Assembly focused on authenticity, depth, and patina—a design approach that required each element to work together to evoke age and permanence. 

The Tin Ceiling: Where Craftsmanship Meets Character 

At the heart of this transformation was the ceiling itself. Assembly selected Pattern 21 tin tiles, with Filler 1 and Crown Molding 1, in Unfinished—allowing complete creative freedom to develop a one-of-a-kind finish. 

But this wasn’t just a standard ceiling installation. They executed a full-coverage, highly detailed plan, including elaborate crown moldings, carefully wrapped soffits, and seamless corner transitions. The effect? A breathtaking canopy that immediately draws the eye upward. 

“It’s the first thing you notice when you walk into the room,” Assembly said. “We needed this ceiling to be perfect.” 

Designing the Illusion of Age 

To reinforce the feeling that Prima had stood the test of time, Assembly developed a custom finishing technique. Starting with a creamy white base, they layered in a soft copper glaze to accentuate the intricate details of the tin. The result was a faux-aged patina that gives the ceiling—and the room—an unmistakable sense of history. 

“American Tin Ceiling product works nicely as a base layer for this type of decorative finish,” they noted. “Layers add character.” 

This approach, both artistic and strategic, embodies their commitment to creating depth in new construction. It’s not about making a space look old—it’s about making it feel well-loved, well-worn, and well-told. 

Layering Materials, Patterns, and Meaning 

Beyond the ceiling, Prima is a master class in layered design. Assembly built the room from a classic foundation of vintage tile, warm wood, and tin, then added luxurious textures and details: rich velvets, vibrant florals, hand-drawn custom wallpaper, and playful fringe. 

Each layer adds another dimension to the space, echoing their philosophy that the more visual and tactile depth a restaurant has, the richer the dining experience will be. 

Where Design and Dining Converge 

Prima isn’t just a beautiful space—it’s a story told through wood, fabric, color, and tin. Assembly Design Studio succeeded in creating a restaurant that honors its setting, supports its culinary vision, and delights guests with a sense of discovery. 

With the tin ceiling as its showpiece, the space tells a story of craftsmanship, character, and curated age—a fitting backdrop for a steakhouse built on heritage, flavor, and unforgettable moments. 

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