Header: Yevhenii Avramenko
In the heart of Kyiv, a new restaurant is offering a fresh look at Ukrainian traditions. STRICHKA, which means “ribbon” in Ukrainian, is a project by the award-winning AIIX studio that explores the country’s cultural depth through design. The restaurant, which recently won a LIV Hospitality Design Award for its brand-new interior, takes its inspiration from modern Ukrainian cooking that uses local ingredients to tell historical stories. This philosophy is carried through into every part of its physical space.
A space tied together by craftsmanship
The name STRICHKA is a key to understanding the design. The idea of a ribbon connecting things is visible throughout the restaurant. AIIX studio, led by designer Oleksandr Bosenko, worked with regional masters to create custom furniture and decor that unify the interior. Each piece, from the chairs to the light fixtures, was made specifically for the restaurant, giving the space a complete and considered feel. The design intentionally supports local artisans, making the restaurant a celebration of contemporary Ukrainian workmanship.
Textured walls and natural materials
Walking into STRICHKA, you immediately notice the walls. They have a rough, earthy texture inspired by the clay huts, or mazankas, that are a traditional part of Ukraine’s architectural history. This single detail grounds the entire restaurant in a familiar, comforting past. The design team prioritized natural and locally sourced materials like wood, clay, and linen. These elements not only reduce the environmental footprint but also give the space a tactile quality that invites you to reach out and touch the surfaces.
Custom ceramics and floral accents
The most personal touches in STRICHKA are found in its ceramics. AIIX studio collaborated with local craftspeople to create decorative tiles and plates exclusively for the project. Each ceramic piece was handmade and imprinted with real meadow flowers, so no two tiles are exactly the same. The grassy and earthy colors of the ceramics point to the deep connection between Ukrainian culture and nature. Adding to this artistic layer are authentic Opishnia ceramics and jugs that recall the ancient Tripillian era, connecting the modern space to thousands of years of local artistry. Throughout the restaurant, arrangements of wildflowers and dried herbs like mint, yarrow, and poppy fill the air with a subtle aroma and carry cultural meaning, as these plants have long been used in Ukrainian traditions for protection and healing.
A kitchen without walls
The layout of STRICHKA is designed to encourage community. At the center of the restaurant is an open kitchen, which allows guests to see the chefs at work and makes the cooking process part of the dining experience. A massive communal table, carved from a single piece of natural stone, acts as the main gathering point. It features a custom-made opening that allows a chef or host to stand inside it, facing the guests. This setup changes a meal into a conversation, perfect for private dinners, cooking demonstrations, or workshops. It’s a modern interpretation of Ukrainian hospitality, turning a simple meal into a memorable shared event. Through its carefully chosen materials, support for local craft, and unique layout, the restaurant presents a quiet, confident, and timeless picture of Ukrainian identity today.
Project info
Company: AIIX studio
Lead Designer: Oleksandr Bosenko
Interior Designer: Roksolana Denys, Anna Bilichenko
Hospitality: Satori group
Construction Company: AIIX studio
Photo Credit: Yevhenii Avramenko
Location: Kyiv, Ukraine
Project Date: June 2024
