Curved Pink Café Transforms Brick Shell
A hybrid retail-café space features boldly curved, pastel pink interiors within a historic brick shell, demonstrating how modern design can coexist with heritage architecture. The transformation offers creative inspiration for anyone tackling commercial or residential renovations in older buildings. The project showcases innovative approaches to blending contemporary aesthetics with traditional structures.
The café, named "Vokrug Podrug" which translates to "Around Girlfriends," is located in Penza, Russia. It was designed by Quadrum Studio, a firm co-founded by architects Albert and Inna Bagdasaryan. The project team, including designers, contractors, and the brand's founders, was composed almost entirely of women. The building itself is a protected architectural monument that originally served as a girls' gymnasium in the early 20th century. Due to its historical status, the original brickwork of the perimeter walls could not be altered and was left untouched during the renovation. To complement the historic shell, the design team installed tinted pink gradient mirrors to add depth to the space. The 150-square-meter interior is defined by a monochromatic pink palette, with shades ranging from blush to fuchsia applied to nearly every surface. This concept is intended to evoke a "pink Narnia," awakening a sense of "girlish energy." The design features a blend of soft curves and industrial elements. Custom stainless steel rails weave through the retail area like a continuous ribbon, while the bar is finished with glazed tiles that transition from white to a light blush. A suspended light installation visually connects the coffee shop and the retail sections. Sustainability and modern manufacturing were incorporated through the use of chairs 3D-printed from recycled plastic. The space is also furnished with pieces from the Russian brand Eburet, which is known for using recycled materials. Other unique material applications include a sink made of colored concrete.
