DIZENGOF99 Cafe in Moscow by Crosby Studios

Designed by Crosby Studios, DIZENGOF99 is a restaurant/ cafe serving Israeli cuisine, located in a new developing area in the historic centre of Moscow. The restaurant occupies a detached single-storey building – something that’s very rare in the Russian capital. The client’s brief asked for the concept to embody the spirit of modern Tel Aviv, specifically it’s creative area Florentin, where all the trendy bars and galleries are located. Other important factors were the restrictions of time and money, which saw the designers get clever and resourceful.

The core of the design is a contrast of old and new, in strictly monochrome colours. “We left the walls as they were after they were demolished, and the entire perimeter to eye level was covered with roofing material finished in white powder-coat. The bar was expanded to the whole width of the space, hiding the bathroom zone behind. Almost the whole perimeter has a bench in the same colours as the countertops and the bar,” explains Harry Nuriev of Crosby Studios.

The designers cleverly layer geometry – ‘grids within grids’ and ‘squares within squares’ – to frame objects and areas within the interior. It’s a simple but very effective technique, which is further enhanced in certain parts with the addition of recessed lighting. Even the tables are framed with a black outline, and feature geometric white tiles laid with black grout.

Spherical forms are introduced through lighting, working in harmony with the wavy rhythm of the corrugated metal. The curved classic-style chairs also add movement, and prevent the design from feeling too slick or minimal. “We used the cheapest chairs, the kind you might find in a Chinatown takeaway place. We finished them in new powder-coat and the seats were reupholstered. We also decided against ceiling lights and used cheap sconces (around 1 euro each) along the perimeter walls.”

The ’80s exterior comes as a welcome surprise, it’s playfully bold and we love the slanted roof and window composition. Memphis meets minimalism – big love from Team Yellowtrace.