Cafe-bistro Common in Voronezh by Y+S Design Studio | Rita Castillo

Inspired by history. A new minimalistic cafe-bistro Common in Voronezh by Y+S Design Studio

In the heart of Voronezh, in a newly recreated constructivist building designed by architect Myasnikova in the 1930s, lies the cafe-bistro Common. Designer Olga Yakovleva and architect Pavel Stefanov from Y+S Design Studio drew inspiration from the location’s history to create a minimalist and functional interior that harmoniously blends vintage and designer furniture and lighting.

Interweaving history and modernity

“We aimed to create a space where history seamlessly intertwines with modernity, and every element of the interior emphasizes the uniqueness of this place,” says Olga Yakovleva. The primary inspiration was the rounded shape of the building's corner facade, which Olga and Pavel incorporated into the interior. The minimalist design is based on smooth lines, logical zoning, and various lighting scenarios.

Aesthetics and functionality

The central hall, covering an area of 90 m², showcases a combination of luxurious natural materials: oak panels on the walls, marble on the tables and bar counter, and textured plaster walls with Argile painting, which adds expressiveness to the space through deep strokes. Noble fabrics, including French wool, jacquard, and velvet used for furniture upholstery, give the interior softness and comfort.

Custom furniture compositions

Custom furniture, created according to sketches by Olga Yakovleva and Pavel Stefanov, is harmoniously complemented by vintage and designer objects and lamps. The central table, wall panels, sofas, bar counter, and marble tables are all made based on the authors' sketches. The chairs at the central table were created in collaboration with Dmitry Samygin and ARCHIPÉLAGO. A minimalist rice paper ball lamp by Davide Gropi hangs above the table.

Vintage and design

Around the marble-topped tables are vintage mahogany Agaat chairs, designed by Gerard Geytenbeek for AZS in 1960. Vintage Italian oak and genuine leather chairs surround the custom round table made of marble and stainless steel, completed by a pendant lamp designed by Achille Castiglioni and Pio Manzù for FLOS. Above the tables around the perimeter of the hall are vintage lamps designed by Jørn Utzon in 1947 for &TRADITION.

Cozy cocktail area

A spiral staircase in red and burgundy leads to the 37 m² cantilevered floor with a cocktail area. It is an ideal place for private meetings, featuring a red-maroon concrete floor and furniture of the same color. The sofas, designed by the architects, are upholstered in Designers Guild fabric, with armchairs and poufs from Archipelago. Stylish Davide Groppi lamps stand on metal tables by OMINIMALISM, and vintage Soviet sconces adorn the walls.

A new conceptual landmark

Cafe-bistro Common has become a new conceptual landmark in Voronezh, where history and modernity converge. The project authors aimed to create a timeless space, a goal they have undoubtedly achieved.

Designer Olga Yakovleva and architect Pavel Stefanov, Y+S Design Studio

Founders of Y+S Design Studio, designer Olga Yakovleva and architect Pavel Stefanov, have been creating interiors since 2008. Their projects include urban apartments, private homes, public spaces, and social facilities. They teach at the "Details" design school and their work is featured in top publications. The studio is ranked among the Top 80 interior designers by Interior + Design magazine. Their crematorium project in Voronezh is listed among the "Top 20 Buildings of Russia in the 21st Century."

Their style, described as artistic minimalism, combines relevance with timeless elegance. "We approach each project individually, using high-quality materials, rare techniques, and skilled craftsmanship to redefine contemporary interiors," say Olga and Pavel.

Designer Olga Yakovleva and architect Pavel Stefanov, founders of Y+S Design studio

@olgayakovlevastyle

@pavel_steffanov

Photo credit Sergey Krasyuk

Instagram @skrasyuk

Style by Natalia Onufreichuk 

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