- Project Name: Forest Restaurant
- Architecture Firm: STUDIO 40
- Location: Yekaterinburg, Russia
- Principal Architect: Vladislav Soroka
- Built Area: 310 sq.m.
- Design Year: 2023
- Completion Year: 2024
- Photography: Natalia Gorbunova
- Interior Design Team: Vladislav Soroka, Yulia Galunova, Maria Cheglakova, Natalia Nesterova, Natalia Petukhova
In the heart of Yekaterinburg, where urban life meets natural landscapes, Forest stands as a restaurant that seamlessly merges modernity with nature. Designed by STUDIO 40, led by Vladislav Soroka, the space offers diners a sensory escape, immersing them in a tranquil, nature-inspired atmosphere.
Concept and Design Philosophy
The design of Forest was shaped by a desire to create a space that feels like an extension of nature. The interior avoids flashy elements, instead focusing on subtle, natural textures and materials. The guiding principle? Let nature take center stage, with design elements enhancing rather than overshadowing the dining experience.
Principal architect Vladislav Soroka and his team, including Yulia Galunova and Maria Cheglakova, envisioned a dining space that fosters relaxation and connection. To achieve this, they drew inspiration from the surrounding landscape and local culture, creating an environment that feels rooted yet contemporary.
Materials and Spatial Planning
The material palette reflects a commitment to natural simplicity:
- Natural wood and plaster dominate the walls and ceilings, lending warmth and texture.
- Terrazzo and porcelain stoneware were chosen for flooring, offering durability and an organic aesthetic.
- Custom glass elements and mirrors enhance light flow, creating a sense of openness.
Spatially, the restaurant overcomes its narrow, elongated layout by embracing vertical elements. High ceilings are softened by suspended wooden islands, creating a cozy, layered effect. Carefully designed zones, from communal tables to intimate seating areas, cater to a variety of dining experiences.
Nature as a Core Element
Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, offering diners panoramic views of the adjacent park and riverside. Instead of conventional curtains, lightweight wooden slats filter sunlight, maintaining privacy while enhancing the connection to nature.
Botanical bas-reliefs and bespoke decor, crafted in collaboration with local artisans, reinforce the restaurant’s ties to the region. Each piece tells a story, celebrating Yekaterinburg’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Sustainability and Local Identity
Forest isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a statement on sustainability and local identity. The furniture, sourced from Ural-based manufacturers, reflects the project’s commitment to supporting local craftsmanship. This ethos extends to the menu, which features ingredients from nearby farms, ensuring a farm-to-table experience.
A Multi-Sensory Dining Experience
At the heart of Forest is a large communal table, symbolizing unity and inclusivity. Surrounding seating options range from cozy sofas for intimate gatherings to bar stools for casual encounters. This thoughtful arrangement caters to both social and private dining preferences.
The lighting design, featuring a mix of natural and artificial light, plays a crucial role in shaping the mood. Custom fixtures enhance the ambiance, casting soft, diffused light that complements the natural materials.
Conclusion
Forest by STUDIO 40 offers more than a dining experience—it’s a journey into nature, where design and culinary arts converge. Through its thoughtful use of local materials, commitment to sustainability, and a deep respect for nature, the restaurant stands as a testament to the power of design in shaping meaningful experiences.
For those seeking a place to unwind and reconnect, Forest is not just a restaurant—it’s an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Yekaterinburg.
