The studio of Finnish interior designer Joanna Laajisto is behind the design and overall renovation of the new Michel Restaurant & Cocktail Bar in Helsinki, Finland. Formerly a popular traditional restaurant named König, this conveniently situated restaurant right in the heart of the city’s shopping district has been transformed into a relaxed yet stylish destination for any time of the day. With the objective of reflecting the owners’ vision of “Urban Classics”, where classic continental and New World dishes are reinterpreted in a modern way, the designer created a comfortable, casual interior that is inviting and cosy whilst incorporating a fresh, urban edge.

In the centre of the space, a Statuario marble and stainless steel cocktail bar stands out for its sculptural form and strong geometry with the rest of the space divided into various dining and drinking areas featuring furniture in ash and beech wood, leather, marble and bronze. A further striking feature is one of the walls which has been covered with green wooden panelling that was inspired by the traditional 1940‘s outdoor kiosks that can be seen all over Helsinki. Meanwhile, in the spacious bathroom area, Laajisto uses marble on all the walls with marble, atmospheric lighting, and even came up with custom designs for the wash basins. Guests will also notice a well-known painting hung conspicuously in the main dining area: it is by famous Finnish painter Akseli Gallen-Kallela, who used to be a loyal customer of the former König!

Design: Joanna Laajisto

via Yatzer