Café Steklyashka is a timeless blend of design influences, offering an inviting and cozy atmosphere that transports visitors across generations. Inspired by Soviet glass cafes, classic American diners, and the elegant flair of Mid-century modern style, Steklyashka is a space where older generations can reminisce about the past while younger ones discover it with curiosity.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Interior Design: Karina Gimranova
Photography: Sergey Krasyuk
The café’s interior design creates an emotional journey. Upon entering, you’re greeted by kaleidoscope-inspired pendant lamps that evoke childhood memories, casting playful reflections across the room. These nostalgic touches are not just for show; they serve as a reminder of the fleeting beauty of each moment. Elements of dichroic film dance in the air, catching light and movement, while the overhead lamps cast warm, inviting glows over the tables, setting the perfect tone for intimate conversations.
The café’s warm lighting and kaleidoscope-inspired aesthetics are easily visible from the street, inviting passers-by to step inside. Whether it’s the vibrant glow of pendant lamps or the carefully crafted glass sconces and floor lamps that echo designs of a bygone era, the atmosphere is irresistible. At each table, integrated lamps enhance the feeling of intimacy, making Café Steklyashka the ideal spot for a quiet cup of coffee or a lively chat with a close friend.
One of the focal points of Steklyashka’s interior is the vibrant mosaic panel, inspired by the work of Soviet muralist Alexander Deineka. The mosaic, infused with optimism, brings to life an airplane motif that conjures feelings of flight and freedom. The small details—polished metal accents, mosaic tiles with a scratched finish, glass blocks, and a retro-inspired sideboard—recreate the charm of Soviet decorating techniques while paying homage to iconic design elements from the Mid-century modern period.
A sense of history and nostalgia can be felt throughout the space. The oak veneer wall panels, with their unique grain patterns, closely resemble Karelian birch, a material often found in Soviet interiors. The use of this wood, along with other retro touches, evokes a subtle sense of luxury, recalling the high-status interiors of the Stalinist Empire. These elements give the café a sense of place and history, blending Soviet influences with modern design to create something entirely new.
The color palette of Café Steklyashka is serene yet inviting. Earthy tones dominate the space, creating a calming backdrop, while subtle blue accents add a splash of brightness. The combination of these hues is a nod to the popular color schemes seen in Soviet interiors, bringing a thoughtful touch of nostalgia to the contemporary setting. The café’s design balances between offering a comforting sense of the familiar and piquing interest in a world that feels both historical and modern.
What truly sets Café Steklyashka apart, though, is its ability to evoke different emotions from its guests. For some, the café offers gentle nostalgia—a warm reminder of childhood or memories of the past. For others, it ignites a deeper curiosity about the Soviet era and its design heritage. The café doesn’t just celebrate the past; it bridges the gap between generations, creating a shared space where memories can be relived, and conversations can flourish.
Designed by Karina Gimranova and photographed by Sergey Krasyuk, Café Steklyashka is more than just a place to enjoy good food and coffee—it’s a thoughtful, carefully curated experience. By blending Soviet-inspired design with Mid-century modern elements, it brings a fresh perspective to traditional café aesthetics. Visitors of all ages can come together in this welcoming space, united by their appreciation of the past and their enjoyment of the present.
