Mimosa Restaurant: A French Bistro Reimagined by Julia Ionova Logua.

Julia Ionova Logua’s latest project, the Mimosa Restaurant, is nestled on the ground floor of a 19th-century building. This contemporary French bistro offers a warm dining experience and showcases Logua’s distinctive design sensibilities, with the designer referencing the restaurant’s namesake flower in the interior scheme.

The renovation transformed the space from a simple concrete box to one rich with story and comfort. Natural materials and a soft but vibrant colour palette dominate the design. The standout feature is the curved wall covered in poplar burl veneer, which warms the overall colour scheme and defines the layout. This wall creates a cosy dining area with a long velvet sofa on one side while concealing a service station and wardrobe on the other. The space is further distinguished by different flooring materials—walnut chevron and travertine tiles.

Upon entering, guests are greeted by a free-standing dessert counter painted in bright yellow lacquer. This counter complements the handmade oval-shaped mosaic floor, which features an image of a mimosa branch. This motif bridges classic interior elements with contemporary vision and is also reflected in the restaurant’s menus and napkins. The bright yellow colour theme is echoed in the glass pendant lights above dining tables and the sculptural chairs by Pierre Paulin.

Two oval-shaped mirrored panels hang from the ceiling, visually expanding the space and enhancing the lighting. These mirrors also conceal all the technical elements, which are painted dark grey to match the ceiling. Behind the small bar counter with a marble top, another mirror references classic Parisian bistro interiors, adding depth and aesthetic appeal.

From the street, Mimosa Restaurant resembles a showcase or a small theatre stage, inviting passersby to become its audience. “The interior was designed to evoke a sense of theatre, a space waiting to be filled with life,” says Logua. This thoughtful design creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that balances historical elements with modern sophistication.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

This project is located in Russia. While we do not condone the war in Ukraine nor agree with the state of Russia’s actions, we do not see any value in punishing individuals for something they have little control over.

Yellowtrace exists to promote good design, new ideas and creative thinking. We believe that good design is for everyone—it comes from all over the world and has the potential to unite us rather than divide us. For this reason, we have decided to continue to share work based on merit rather than location. We will take a similar approach to various global sporting events where Russian and Belarusian athletes can compete while not appearing as representatives of their countries.

While we understand not everyone will agree with our decision, this is what feels right for us. Thank you.

[Images courtesy of Julia Ionova Logua. Branding and graphics by Ira Korotich. Photography by Maksim Loskutov.]