SHAVI – a fast-casual restaurant located in the quaint city of Yoshkar-Ola, Russia. It is a modern eatery with an interior that boasts a refreshing take on Georgian art and architecture.

We designed the new bistro that destined to be a hot spot for city dwellers looking for a unique, non-traditional dining experience in the city. Team’s reinterpretation of Georgian design brings the spirit of Georgia through the prism of the modern world. The result is a trendy bistro outfitted with an intuitive layout, sleek finishes, and modernized Georgian patterns. The literal translation of the bistro name ‘shavi’ (Georgian - შავი) is black, one of the most popular colours in the fashion industry. Taking inspiration from Georgia’s vibrant fashion scene, the design team created decor elements inspired by pieces from the Haute couture collections of Georgian fashion designers. Bespoke ached table stands were created based on classical Georgian architecture, and the intricate folds on the restaurant menu pay homage to the designs and patterns of notable Georgian fashion designers.

The space itself is divided into three functional areas. Towards the entrance, table arrangements, and seating options reminiscent of a bar zone is the perfect place to enjoy a beer and small appetizers. A dining hall isolated by a partition of glass blocks offers a more intimate space with less foot traffic for patrons of various sized groups to enjoy a full-course dinner.

Completed with comfy sofas and tables based on the sketches of the architects, the dining hall provides a bright and inviting space suitable for all occasions. As you head deeper into the bistro, a long, communal table can be found tucked into a narrow space surrounded by wall installations. The communal area provides not only a place for guests to meet with friends, but also makes the perfect event space for the occasional lectures held at the venue on Georgian art and architecture.

Gallery-inspired lighting on the walls doubles the space into a rotating exhibition, bringing local artists and creators under the spotlight. The open-concept kitchen invites guests to observe the preparation of their food from the dining area, creating an inviting atmosphere that is open and transparent. Other features such as specially installed wine taps as well as a market where guests can buy Georgian products further enhance the bistro’s Georgian narrative, bringing a taste of this beautiful country to the local people.

Every colour, texture, and pattern used in space have been inspired by the Georgian art and culture, interlacing a variety of textures and patterns to create an intricate yet polished look and feel. Natural warm colours of plaster and deep natural green, smooth furniture surface and rough walls, terrazzo and graphic lines, vibrant green plants, and architectural glass blocks come together harmoniously to immerse guests deep into their hip and unique interpretation of modern Georgia.