In the heart of Warsaw’s Powiśle district, on Wiślana Street, the ‘Bez Gwiazdek’ restaurant underwent a metamorphosis that combined Polish culinary tradition with modern design. The interior design and comprehensive supervision of the project were led by Mariola Kowalska and Gabriela Radwanowska of Studio Rysik. The studio created a space in which architecture is not just a background, but an integral part of the experience. The entire metamorphosis was realised in just three weeks, with strict adherence to the budget and in the difficult acoustic conditions of the office building. This proves that for Studio Rysik, ‘impossible things’ are a standard part of the investment process.
The philosophy of the ‘No Stars’ restaurant is shaped by chef Robert Trzópek, who honed his skills at places like Noma and El Bulli. His passion for local products perfectly matches the vision of the architect, who based the interior narrative on the same values: localness, authenticity of raw materials and attention to detail.
Already from the entrance, a glass partition with fused linen separates the street hustle and bustle from the room, creating an atmosphere of intimacy. The interior deliberately avoids ostentatious luxury in favour of discreet elegance. The materials used by the designers – flamed matt Strzegom granite, oak veneer, glass and steel – create a coherent, multisensory palette. The roughness of the stone contrasts with the smoothness of the wood, while the natural oil-waxes release a delicate fragrance, enhancing the guest experience.
Conscious choices and furnishings with character
The project combined high quality workmanship with an authoritative selection of domestic brands. Mariola Kowalska relied on proven partners, which is why she decided on Kontakt-Simon electrical fittings – choosing the elegant, reliable Simon 82 series.
Every piece of equipment here is the result of a thoughtful decision by Studio Rysik. The solid oak tables were custom-made at the In Wood We Trust manufactory, and the chairs designed by Nikodem Szpunar come from Noti. The bar area was equipped with fittings by Deante (kitchen faucet and Olfato sink), while in the bathroom the Silia washbasin faucet by Deante Design Studio was chosen, which guaranteed functionality while maintaining aesthetic consistency.
The focal point of the restaurant is the chef’s table island – the heart of the restaurant, where guests observe the culinary magic. A unique narrative element is also the map of Poland cut into the veneer, which subtly illuminates the region of origin of the current menu. The colour scheme of the interior is kept in earthy tones, creating a calm background for the culinary compositions served here.
The metamorphosis of ‘Bez Gwiazdek’ by Studio Rysik is more than a change in aesthetics. It is an example of a professionally conducted investment process in which the architecture complements the kitchen and the guest becomes a participant in a story told by taste, space and smell.
Design: Studio Rysik
Photography: Anna Gudaniec
Wall painting: Magdalena Król
See also: Architecture | Warsaw | Kitchen | Restaurant
