In the heart of Penza, Russia, a former girls’ gymnasium—now an architectural monument—has been transformed into Vokrug Podrug, a whimsical concept store and coffee shop that celebrates femininity through a daring pink palette. Designed by Quadrum Studio, the project is a visual feast that awakens girlish energy with its playful yet sophisticated approach to interior design.
The space, envisioned as a “pink Narnia,” is a masterclass in color psychology and spatial storytelling. From the moment visitors step inside, they are enveloped in a world where shades of pink—from blush to fuchsia—dominate every surface. The bar area, coated in a gradient glaze that transitions from white to a delicate blush, sets the tone for the entire experience. Smooth curves and clean lines on the ceiling create a dynamic contrast, inviting guests to explore further.
What makes Vokrug Podrug truly unique is its fusion of history and modernity. The original brickwork of the early 20th-century building was preserved, with Quadrum Studio incorporating tinted mirrors in a pink gradient to reflect and amplify the space. The retail area and café are seamlessly connected by a light ceiling that mimics a cloudy sky, while custom stainless steel rails weave through the store like a continuous ribbon, adding an industrial edge to the soft palette.
Furniture choices further elevate the design. Sofas curve along the perimeter like a “long braid,” while poufs adorned with heart-shaped seams and 3D-printed chairs made from recycled plastic inject humor and sustainability into the space. A multi-tiered rack with industrial clamps and slatted ceilingsintroduce geometric tension, proving that playful design can coexist with architectural rigor.
Quadrum Studio, a team comprised almost entirely of women, infused the project with local pride and experimental flair. Highlights include a sink made of colored concrete, furniture from Russian brand Eburet, and mirrors with pink hues that add depth and whimsy. The result is a space where even a simple dish on a pink plate feels like a work of art.
For those eager to experience this pink wonderland, Vokrug Podrug is more than a café or store—it’s a celebration of female creativity and bold design.