The dining hall

The profound influence of a single red checkered deli paper, serving as the initial source of inspiration for the entire concept, unlocks a realm where the interlocks of positive and negative space gracefully unfolds around this Detroit-style Pizzeria.

Within the walls of the historic Universul Palace in Bucharest, the dining hall, known as "Sala de mese – Apollo 111", harmoniously blends retro aesthetics with contemporary design elements. Once home to the editorial office of the Universul newspaper in the first half of the 20th century, the palace underwent a meticulous restoration and conversion, transforming it into a vibrant hub for the creative industries. Now, it hosts an array of dynamic spaces, including a theater, cinema, wine bar, cafe, architecture office, exhibition areas, and more.

The imposing building combines the neo-Romanian style with the modernist one. Fortunately, the interior of the dining hall still featured some heritage elements that were enhanced and integrated into the new proposal, such as the sculpted ceiling and the marble-covered wall.

Beyond its functional purpose of counteracting the tunnel effect, the bold ceiling, bathed in a rich red hue pays tribute to the quintessential American diners while creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of the classic pizzerias. The choreography of red lines cascading from the ceiling, tracing their way along walls, confers a dynamic energy upon the space, accentuating the sense of movement. The suspended mirrored sphere becomes a captivating focal point, enveloping the restaurant in a kaleidoscope of reflections. Positioned strategically, it embraces the vibrant colors, intricate details, and lively atmosphere, fostering an interactive visual exchange between patrons and employees preparing drinks and pizzas at the open bar. Beyond its aesthetic allure, the reflective sphere also serves a practical purpose, augmenting the overall lighting scheme. Its ability to disperse and refract light provides a gentle glow that adds depth and dimension to the restaurant's interior.

Throughout the pizzeria, the square motif emerges as a unifying language, connecting various design elements and creating a captivating visual journey for all who enter. Drawing inspiration from the Googie architecture era, neon signs, square tiles, bold colors, and art pieces come together to infuse the space with a sleek and futuristic ambiance. The juxtaposition of the bar's white glossy tiles and the colorful surroundings offers a bold contrast that embodies the spirit of innovation found in both retro and contemporary design. This square motif echoes within the bathroom mirrors as well, where the reflections gently move among the meticulously arranged pieces.

The diverse seating options within the pizzeria, featuring elevated marble high-top tables, cozy turquoise-tiled benches, and complemented by steel elements, provide a seamless balance, empowering individuals to curate their own dining journey.