In Kyrgyzstan, a café harmoniously blends post-Soviet architectural rigor with the urban charm of Manhattan lofts.
In the latest installment of Wallpaper's series, 'The Inside Story', we delve into Kyrgyzstan's burgeoning interior design scene. Despite Kyrgyzstan often going unnoticed on global maps, the country – primarily composed of mountains – is home to a wealth of design talent.
Bishkek, the capital and home to a seventh of the nation's population, serves as an intriguing blend of Soviet legacy and central Asian culture. However, it is also a modern metropolis making strides in the interiors industry, as demonstrated by the emergence of establishments like Capito.
Capito, conceptualized by Kyrgyz designer Jamal Ramisova of Jamal Ramis Design Bureau, is an open-plan space that echoes Bishkek's unique identity. hallmarks of brutalist architecture, such as exposed concrete walls and original concrete columns, pay homage to the city's Soviet-era heritage. Yet, Ramisova also brings Manhattan loft aesthetics into play, creating a light, airy atmosphere that may seem distinctly un-Soviet, considering the geographical distance between Bishkek and New York.
Ramisova's design reaches global shores, as evidenced by the café's incorporation of ancient Greek, European, and Viennese elements. These nods to different cultural lexicons create an eclectic, yet harmonious space. Classic architecture motifs and William Morris fabrics are woven seamlessly into the design, while vintage Viennese chairs and a repurposed piano bring history and character to the modern space.
Despite its minimalist appeal, Capito remains warm and inviting, crucial elements for any cafeteria. This ambiance is brought to life through considered details such as soft fabrics, curious book and tableware displays, and vibrant pops of color – like red accents, yellow stripes, and bursts of verdant plant life. These elements breathe life into the space, making it as inviting as it is visually stimulating.
In conclusion, Capito's design journey is about balancing Bishkek's Soviet roots with global design trends and vintage charm, resulting in a café that is at once a reflection of the city and an alluring destination in its own right.
The design of Capito, a modern café in Bishkek, encapsulates the city's unique identity, seamlessly blending brutalist architecture, Soviet heritage, and global design trends. This interior design masterpiece represents a fusion of cultures and lifestyles, spanning from ancient Greek and European elements to traditional Viennese pieces, creating an eclectic yet harmonious home-and-garden atmosphere.
