Iskra is a minimal restaurant located in Minsk, Belarus, designed by ZROBIM architects. To achieve balance, the architects opted for a contrast in finishes. On the first floor, dark graphite tones prevail, enhanced by translucent lighting elements that float near the ceiling. General lighting is minimized in favor of targeted illumination over tables and the bar, ensuring each dish is well-lit and visually appealing. The second floor takes the opposite approach, with white walls and a darkened ceiling evoking the impression of a “dark sky.” Metal details—thin pipes, table edges, and minimalist arches—reference the building’s industrial past. The bar and kitchen areas employ metal surfaces that resemble a production line, while small-format clinker tiles soften the setting and add warmth underfoot.
Natural motifs, such as decorative branches and a feature wall, introduce a sense of organic calm into the otherwise utilitarian environment. When upgrading the outdoor terrace, the team decided not to replicate the interior concept. Given Oktyabrskaya Street’s thriving street-food and art culture, the designers selected furniture in colors that reflect local façades and incorporated a concrete arc reminiscent of the interior’s curves. Inside, furnishings mostly consist of custom pieces. Only a limited number of items—chairs, wall lamps, and fixtures—were sourced off the shelf. This approach allowed the architects to maintain a consistent, unembellished character throughout.
Seating arrangements are flexible enough to accommodate various group sizes, even hosting small gatherings. A central bench on the ground floor helps draw attention inward, preventing guests from proceeding directly upstairs. This creates a more balanced flow of patrons, ensuring that the restaurant appears inviting and active from the street. Lighting played a crucial role. The design team collaborated with metal fabricators, lighting specialists, builders, and other designers to achieve a focused yet comfortable ambience. Overhead luminaires illuminate dishes clearly for photography and presentation, without casting harsh shadows on diners.
Translucent fabrics suspended from the ceiling introduce a theatrical dynamic, allowing second-floor guests to observe the scene below. Delicate metal arches highlight window openings and create defined seating areas, while a similar element marks the transition to the restroom block. These choices organize the interior without introducing unnecessary decoration. By adapting the industrial framework of this former factory building and blending it with contemporary design elements, Iskra’s team has produced a refined yet understated environment.
