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In this interior design project, we conceptually combined two elements: the establishment's format and its unique location. The history of izakayas dates back to the Edo period in Japan when liquor stores were first granted the right to sell alcohol for consumption on the premises. Over time, these places evolved to include bar counters, providing guests with the opportunity to enjoy drinks and snacks in a friendly atmosphere. We drew inspiration from this tradition for our project and installed seven seating places behind the bar - on custom-made regular height soft chairs designed according to our sketches, and equipped the shelf behind the bar as a display case with bottles, reminiscent of the historical purpose of izakayas as liquor stores. ...

The 205 m2 space is divided into two parts with different lighting scenarios and has 87 seating places. The first scenario is characterized by soft, warm spot lighting and a semi-dark atmosphere, which is an integral part of this format. In the right black part of the establishment, closer to the entrance, there is general diffused lighting. This solution defines the purpose of this area - it is designed for quick bites without venturing deep into the establishment.

In the left part of the venue there is an innovative design solution - a concrete wave-shaped table for 16 people symbolizing the confluence of the Omka and Irtysh rivers, where Izakaya Yosai restaurant is located. The central art object of the restaurant is placed above the table. This installation is an array of branches that were specially collected from the banks of these two rivers. Each decorative element in the interior design of Izakaya Yosai restaurant has a meaning and tells its own story, bringing a unique depth to the atmosphere. Special attention is paid to the 23-meter-long suspended wave, which symbolizes the silhouette of the Irtysh River, reflecting the connection with the main river of the city.

The name Yosai was not chosen by chance, as it translates from Japanese to "fortress." The space chosen for the establishment is the historical building of the first Omsk fortress. Paying homage to history, we left exposed bricks on the walls and used fundamental constructions and materials in the project - concrete and wooden countertops with a thickness of 8 centimeters, massive metal installations on the ceiling. In support of historical meanings, old barn boards from a dismantled hut specifically for the project were used to finish the wall in the left corner of the restaurant.

Russia, Omsk

Area: 205 m2

Year: 2023

Interior designer: Konstantin Ostroukhov, Anna Nikolaeva, Anna Sitnikova

Photo by Inna Kablukova