Getting a new aesthetic and gastronomic experience in the family pizzeria Únai in Astana will not be difficult. Bumpy, deliberately uneven plaster, tabletop with the effect of cracks, brick floor, more reminiscent of paving stones...
The right bank of Astana. Old and cozy part of the city. Family pizzeria in a 19th century building with art nouveau elements. And the designers' task is to preserve authenticity and authenticity, reminding of the historical roots of the space.
"That's how we would like to describe this project, but... the city is young, and there are not and cannot be old architectural objects here. These are the opportunities when you don't have to adjust to what has already been created, but it's easy to create from scratch. Not to remake, but to create your own. Freedom without limits and restrictions," say Sergey Bekmukhanbetov and Rustam Minnehanov, heads of the Kvadrat Architects studio.
Birch trees and other allusions
The pizzeria is oriented to family recreation. The shades in the interior are as close to natural as possible. There is clay plaster on the walls, and ceramic tiles with craquelure were used on the tables. Cracks pass through layers of paint and create a unique pattern. Thanks to such complex surfaces, artificial and natural light plays in the interior. Beautiful reflection, refraction of rays always looks different. On the floor, the original material for the capital's interior is natural brick. It is pleasant to the eye, unusual to the touch, which is noticeable when you walk on it. The chairs were created in the Almaty workshop by order of designers Rustam and Sergey. Birch trunks are a reference to the way of making delicious pizza. It is hardwood that is used in the wood-fired oven to create this dish.
Stork's nest as a continuation of the ecotheme
The bathroom and closet, which the small space did not allow to hide, decided to highlight on the contrary by covering with contrasting material. A separate art object is located at a non-standard angle. This complex feature has become an advantage. It separates the seating area and bar space, and the entrance is hidden from the eyes. The interior of the restroom is atypical for establishments. Smooth reliefs of walls, a sink made of natural river stone, lacquered brick floor. The ceiling has a stork's nest as a continuation of the eco-theme.
