The UKOI restaurant in Łódź covers 280 square metres and was created as a space that combines Asian influences with European sensibilities and a contemporary approach to design. The architects from the CUDO studio harnessed the potential of the historic tenement building, juxtaposing its historical elements with a striking new design layer. In parallel with the interior work, a visual identity was developed by HART Studio, enabling the creation of a cohesive brand world – modern, slightly theatrical and complementing the culinary experience of Asian flavours.
From the outset, the project envisaged a clear functional division. The ground floor was to be a daytime space – open, dynamic and flexible. The first floor was planned as an evening zone, more atmospheric, intimate and conducive to longer stays. This duality became the foundation of the entire concept.
Concept and inspiration
The designers at UKOI drew on a broadly defined Asian aesthetic, but treated it in an interpretative manner. Instead of literal references, subtle associations emerge – in the materials, details, graphics and the layout of the booths. An important point of reference was the theatricality of the space, created through light, colour and the sequence of moving through successive zones. The design also echoes colonial aesthetics and travel motifs, including layouts reminiscent of train carriage interiors. The whole concept is based on atmosphere, not on unambiguous symbols.
The Two Worlds of UKOI
The restaurant is spread over two floors. The ground floor is an open, flexible space where tables can be freely combined. The centrally located bar and open-plan kitchen enliven the interior and are clearly visible from the entrance. Near the stairs, a landing with a seating area has been designed, which, together with the staircase, forms an important compositional element.
The first floor has a completely different character – more intimate, suited to the evening, and divided into semi-private areas and private booths. It is a space conducive to longer gatherings, creating a sense of being cut off from the hustle and bustle of the street. The staircase acts as a narrative link between these two worlds, guiding guests through a gradual shift in atmosphere.
Implementation challenges
The design combines preserved historical elements with new materials. The stucco work (partially restored) has been highlighted with light and colour. The interior is complemented by natural wood, stone, brushed steel and mirrored surfaces, which introduce a sense of depth. Original Asian-inspired wallpapers and textiles play an important role, particularly on the upper floor, where they enhance the atmospheric character.
The greatest challenges stemmed from working within the historic fabric of the building. The premises had previously been divided into many small rooms, which required significant demolition work and the reopening up of the space. Some of the stucco work needed to be restored, and the building’s structure imposed design constraints. Another difficulty was designing the catering facilities so that they remained out of sight of guests, and incorporating new features – including toilets under the stairs. At the same time, it was necessary to reconcile the two distinct characters of the interiors whilst maintaining their cohesion.
The role of details
Among the most interesting solutions are the open-plan bar and kitchen, which enhance interaction with guests, and the coffered ceiling on the ground floor with colour-changing lighting, allowing the atmosphere to be adapted to the time of day. Mirrored surfaces create additional perspectives and introduce an element of mystery, whilst the staircase has been designed as a sculptural form integrating various functions. A distinctive feature is the bespoke wallpaper – including the design featuring a cat, UKOI’s brand hero, inspired by Asian symbols of good luck.
The furniture is largely made to order. On the ground floor, it has a neutral, functional character, allowing for flexible use of the space. Upstairs, the furniture is more decorative – featuring turned legs and patterned upholstery inspired by Asian motifs. The seating areas have been designed to foster intimacy and evoke associations with travel.
HART Studio’s visual identity was developed in parallel with the interior design. The branding combines Asian inspirations with a European sensibility, whilst avoiding stereotypical references. The logo is based on soft, repetitive forms, and the dot above the letter ‘i’ was designed as a bowl – a motif later developed in the brand’s signage and logo variants. The overall design strikes a balance between approachability and a fashionable, slightly funky character, creating a cohesive brand identity.
design: CUDO:
branding in collaboration with HART Studio
photography: Migdał Studio
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