It is an atmospheric and sensorial dining space that provides a powerful encoded narrative about the folklore associated with the Caspian Sea. This Dining Room and retail space at the headquarters for the Russian Caviar House(RCH) company, aims to re-present caviar gastronomy within an atmospheric and mystical setting. Drawing from the Siberian landscape and folklore about the alluring Rusalka mermaid, this destination restaurant sits as a counterpoint within the industrial architecture of the Novgorod processing plant.

The forms which were taken as an inspiration for this project are linked with the Russian traditional folklore stories (a hut on chicken legs) as well as the fi shing topic (fish scale).

DESIGN AGENDA: This destination restaurant envisions a new identity for the RCH brand, that will establish caviar as an element in experimental regional cuisine. The designer’s interest in Russian philosophy has been translated into new semiotic design metaphors that poetically re-create the essence of the fishermen’s’ lodge. This contemporary dining concept presents a progressive paradigm shift away from a pastiche associated with a ‘Tin of Caviar’, towards an innovative space that speaks to a younger more experientially orientated diner. A colony of pre-fabricated ‘fishing huts’ soar into this tall industrial site, offering vantage points and privacy for diners. Inspired by Siberian stories, materials are used as a metaphor for the Hero (the Fisherman) and the Siren (the Rusalka) a sea sprite.