The project brief was to create a space in Ivano-Frankivsk that would preserve the owners’ connection to their hometown of Berdiansk, currently under occupation. Rather than literally recreating the city, the interior was designed to evoke memories of the places, textures, and sensations that hold particular meaning for them.

The sea and the coastline became the key references throughout the interior. Blue marble tabletops echo the color of the sea, while textured plaster with a vertical relief evokes the sandy shore. At the center of the restaurant are three large, organically shaped tables reminiscent of sea-worn stones. They can be used separately for regular seating or joined into a single composition for larger groups, gatherings, and workshops. Above them, an installation made of warm, sand-toned linen creates a sculptural form that recalls sails.

An important aspect of the project was collaboration with local contractors and craftspeople. Almost every element of the interior was custom-made specifically for the space, from furniture to lighting fixtures and lampshades. The furniture that was sourced rather than custom-made is predominantly vintage and has been reinterpreted within the new interior. Together with the use of natural materials and the reuse of existing pieces, this became part of the project’s sustainable approach.

The restaurant was conceived not only as a place to meet and dine, but also as a space for creativity and interaction. Its central area can easily adapt to different scenarios, including communal events and workshops, supporting the project’s main idea: to create a place that brings people together while preserving a connection to home.

The zoning accommodates different ways of using the space: the entrance area has the more informal character of a café and patisserie, suitable for working, short meetings, or small groups, while the second part of the dining room offers a more intimate, restaurant-style setting.