Nastia Mirzoyan transforms a kyiv nightclub into a sparsely decorated bistro

Plywood and stainless steel meet historic brickwork in this bistro located in a former kyiv nightclub designed by Ukrainian architect Nastia Mirzoyan.

Named Kitsunya, the bistro opened earlier this year on the ground floor of a 150-year-old building in the city’s Shevchenkivs’kyi district.

It serves Asian-style cuisine, which Mirzoyan subtly references in the interior by hanging rows of fabric panels – commonly used in Japanese interiors – above the bar.

“(Kitsunya) combines subtle Asian influences with modern simplicity, aiming to create an authentic space without being overly decorated or traditional,” the designer told Dezeen.

Due to budgetary constraints, Mirzoyan chose to retain a number of existing built-ins, such as the bar that runs through the long, narrow space, as well as retaining the original brickwork and services exposed.

“The bistro retains architectural elements that add character to the space, including aged brick walls with rich textures resulting from years of use,” Mirzoyan continued.

Rather than spending money on changing the layout, the designer chose to invest in custom-made seating and tables, primarily made from wood and steel.

According to the designer, the metal bar tables, bar stools, dining tables, stools and benches were all custom made for the project.

Square-topped plywood tables are placed against one wall, flanked by Magnus Olesen X-line chairs – the blue seats and backs provide a pop of color in this otherwise neutral interior.

Custom wall-mounted tables at the front of the space are inspired by bar-style seating commonly found in ramen shops and are paired with matching high stools.

The venue transitions seamlessly from daytime to evening use – this sense of continuity was enhanced by the multiple forms of lighting present in the space.

“By using bright, neutral lighting in the morning and warmer, amber light in the evening, we created a space that is welcoming at any time of day,” the designer continued.

In stark contrast to the rest of the space, a hallway leading to the bathroom features walls covered in construction paper.

This material was used for its affordability and ability to reflect light, creating an unexpected and playful feel.

Kitsunya was previously occupied by a nightclub, which was forced to close following the Russian invasion of Ukraine due to the newly imposed curfew.

It was completed despite a shortage of people available to work in construction due to military service.

Mirzoyan has completed a number of projects in and around Kyiv despite the ongoing conflict, including the renovation of a Stalin-era apartment and a cocktail bar with a dark brown and green color scheme.

Projects from other studios located in the Ukrainian capital include a house by Shovk that references Japanese design principles and a cosmetics showroom designed by Bude Architects.

Photography is by Yevhenii Avramenko.