The task for 0.5 Studio was to create the interior of a bistro that would offer authentic hotdogs. “I have always wanted to open a diner with a gas station where truck drivers and motorcyclists could come. I drew inspiration from the United States,” says investor Tomáš Oujezdský. Opening his own business has been his long-held dream.
The investor's brief also included the requirement to create a business whose atmosphere changes throughout the day. During the day, it operates as a peaceful space to enjoy food, while in the evening it transforms into a lively bar or a venue for intimate concerts. For this purpose, the investor rented the space of a former bar on Kamenická Street in Letná. This neighborhood seemed ideal due to its pleasant location between two parks. The layout of the former bar was suitable for the intended purpose. The location of the backroom, storage, and the new open kitchen logically connects to the dining area.
The architects created a contemporary, minimalist interior without historical allusions. It provides a dignified framework and does not draw unnecessary attention to itself. The goal was to refine the space in every detail, which is why high-quality materials were chosen. "In terms of aesthetics, we wanted to approach bistros and restaurants of Dutch and American style, but without unnecessary forced decorations,” says architect Vít Svoboda. The bistro allows for interaction between visitors, food, and employees. “An inviting approach and a glimpse into the kitchen are the fundamental ideas of Mr. HotDoG, which we reflected in our realization,” states architect Pavel Nový.
The overall space of the bistro feels airy and bright, supported by large windows and original doors from the 90s. These are unified in black color with other parts of the interior. The play with light is one of the prominent elements of the realization, whether it is the neon sign with the hotdog logo designed by Alexey Kluykov or the lightboxes with the menu placed above the bar and on the walls.
A linking feature of the space is a ceramic tile reminiscent of New York subway stations, while the plaster in the back part of the establishment was chipped away to expose the bricks and repainted, just like the rest of the interior, in an ivory shade. Another distinctive material is oak wood, whose structure stands out on the massive bar top, and otherwise appears on the wooden floor or on custom-made benches and tables. The seating is arranged in the form of long benches that connect both spaces in combination with simple stools from the company TON.
The investor had a custom font created for his menu, designed by Timur Akhmetov. The AB Marker font refers to the aesthetic of a marker and is used both on the paper version of the menu and on the lightboxes and the signage.
The space has already hosted the first intimate concerts of Phillip Bracken (AUS) and Boy Wonder & The Teen Sensations (CZ). More will follow soon.
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