BRIEF:

The project focuses on the interior redesign of the POTRVÁ café. The existing space no longer met new operational requirements – it was dark, spatially inefficient, and did not comply with current demands for lighting and electrical installations. The brief also included revising the layout of tables and seating, removing the original stage, and a possible adjustment of the front bar area.

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CONCEPT:

The key impulse of the design is a change in the café’s operational concept. The space is newly designed to function as a bright and welcoming café during the day, while transforming into a place for shared dining in a mezze-style concept in the evening. This shift is reflected mainly in the new seating arrangement, allowing flexible joining of tables for larger groups as well as more intimate seating for smaller numbers.

 

Light becomes the central theme of the design. The new lighting concept works with multiple lighting levels and enables changing atmospheres throughout the day. During daytime, the space is illuminated by diffused light; in the evening, it transitions into a more intimate mood through ambient and wall lighting. Emphasis is placed on focused lighting above tables and high-quality task lighting at the bar.

 

The overall atmosphere of the interior is based on “cleansing” the space from layers of previous interventions. Walls are unified in a soft off-white tone, the original vaulted ceilings remain exposed and work with their natural patina. The proposal includes reopening two windows near the former stage area and removing black curtains and technical equipment that lose relevance with the reduction of cultural events.

 

Material-wise, the design combines warm and natural elements. Wood plays a dominant role, particularly stained oak or walnut used for custom-designed benches and tables. These are complemented by lighter chairs with metal structures and subtle steel or stainless-steel table bases. Color accents in muted dark green and brick-red tones add depth and character to the space.

 

The proposal also includes a redesign of the bar, which in its original state was too dark and visually heavy. The new solution integrates it more closely with the café interior and supports the overall spatial balance.

 

The result is a brighter, more open, and flexible interior that responds to the café’s new mode of operation and creates a pleasant setting for everyday meetings as well as evening shared dining.