Oni Ramen in Gdańsk is an example of how an existing space can take on a completely new identity through thoughtful design. Aleksandra Liszewska and Elżbieta Maruszczak have created an interior for a dining brand aimed at a young audience – people who are open-minded, curious about the world and seeking places that leave a lasting impression. The design does not refer to Japan in a literal sense. Instead, it offers a contemporary interpretation of urban culture, full of neon lights, vibrant colours and contrasts, evoking the atmosphere of Tokyo or Osaka in a modern, graphic style.
A new lease of life for an existing space
The restaurant was created in premises that previously served a similar purpose, which is why many elements have been retained and repurposed. This was a deliberate design choice – rather than demolishing the space or replacing the fittings, the designers focused on giving the existing elements a new character. The tables were sanded down and their edges and legs painted a vibrant raspberry red. The corners feature burnt-in illustrations of gyoza dumplings, each in a different arrangement, creating a detail that adds a touch of lightness and humour. The chairs were given new finishes in two bold colours – raspberry red and deep navy blue – which became the colour palette for the entire interior.
The industrial character of the space is emphasised by the existing metal truss structure by the stairs. After being repainted, it served as the starting point for designing further openwork partitions, which organise the space and subtly delineate the restaurant’s zones. As a result, the interior retains its original framework whilst gaining a new, more dynamic structure.
Colour for the senses
Colour plays a key role in the design. The white walls have given way to bold colours – deep navy blue appears on the walls with neon lighting, whilst the floor has been painted in a cool, dove-blue shade. The upper sections of the walls have been covered with paint imitating concrete, which balances the intense accents and reinforces the industrial character of the interior. The existing ceramic tiles have been retained but repainted red, giving them a new visual function. The motif of square tiles has also been carried over into the guest lounge, where it creates a graphic detail reminiscent of pixels – a contemporary nod to pop culture.
The sofas have been reupholstered, and one of them has been shortened to reveal the windowsill and create additional seating. This has allowed for better use of natural light and opened up the interior towards the street. Above the bar, the heavy metal structure has been replaced with lightweight fabrics featuring an original pattern designed specifically for Oni Ramen, giving the space a softer, more relaxed feel.
A space rich in detail
One of the project’s strongest features is the illustration by Amal Al‑Shahari, which has replaced the previous green wall of plants. The composition has been designed to be visible from the outside as well, helping to make the venue recognisable from street level. A specially shaped mirror bearing the inscription ‘BOW’ has been placed on one of the walls. This is a contemporary interpretation of the Japanese gesture of respect, which encourages guests to interact with the space.
The project also extended to the toilets. The existing tiles were repainted to match the restaurant’s colour scheme, and the large mirror was replaced with an arrangement of nine smaller traffic mirrors. The result is a space that naturally lends itself to taking photos and sharing experiences on social media. The whole is complemented by numerous neon signs. These illuminated decorations enhance the atmosphere; inspired by Asian streets full of colourful advertisements, they ensure the restaurant remains visible even after dark.
A new identity without demolition
Oni Ramen demonstrates that an interior makeover does not necessarily require radical structural changes. Through the thoughtful use of the existing space and a design focused on detail, Aleksandra Liszewska and Elżbieta Maruszczak have created a space with a distinctive character – bold, full of energy and designed with the guests’ experience in mind. It is a contemporary interpretation of Japanese aesthetics that evokes the atmosphere of modern city streets.
design: Aleksandra Liszewska, Elżbieta Maruszczak
photographs: Anna Dudzińska
See also: Restaurant | Interiors | Gdańsk | Detail | Japan | whiteMAD on Instagram
