Story Restaurant in Helsinki by Joanna Laajisto

The front of the new structure at Restaurant Story has a large timber shelf with chalkboard painted in custom-tinted blue colour. A large counter with stone composite tiles in herringbone pattern is placed in the heart of the space.

The colourful chairs and decor are in line with design agency Fabel’s playful and colourful graphic design, contributing to a youthful and fresh space.

Restaurant Story is Helsinki’s newest, easy-going meeting place. The café/ restaurant opened just 2 weeks ago, housed within The Old Market Hall on Helsinki’s waterfront. This spectacular high-ceiling heritage space was once used for loading horse carriages.

The restaurant was designed by interior architect Joanna Laajisto and her team. The interior sits comfortable with the original architecture, but brings a new, fresh flavour with a modern touch. The materials used are natural and classic, such as oak, leather and stone. The side facing the city – with it’s relaxed seating arrangements – is separated by a timber half-wall with herb pots. The central part of the hall is now grandiose, livening up the market hall like never before.

Joanna Laajisto’s custom-made Edit2 lamps create an intimate atmosphere. Large pendants are designed by Zero.

“Story’s interior gives homage to the original feel and history of the market hall, but placing it in a new time with a modern twist. The challenge was to get the high-ceiling hall space feel intimate, instead of a space to pass through. I believe we managed to grant Helsinki a space that has been missing from here,” says Laajisto.

Custom-made light installation was created by Laajisto as lamps were not allowed to be hung from the 10-metre high ceiling. Wire fishing baskets from the summer house of one the owners found a new life as lamps over the long tables. The seating booths are made of oak and lined with leather, complemented by a black metal shelf. The entire interior is full of beautiful details, create with the feel of the market hall in mind. It’s just beautiful. All of it.

Story’s tables are designed and handmade by Helsinki’s own wood artisan Tebian. “At last I found the perfect, classy enough space for this example of detailed constructivism. It is classically me”, says Tebian.

Location: Old Market Hall, Eteläranta, Helsinki.
Restaurateurs: Anders Westerholm (CEO/Partner, The We Are Group Oy), Matti Sarkkinen, Teemu Aura and Markus Hurskainen.
Photography: Mikko Ryhänen.