In the bustling streets of Warsaw, a unique culinary voyage awaits. Pastelowe patisserie, a compact yet captivating space on Solec, transports visitors directly to the sun-drenched shores and rolling waves of Portugal, not just through its signature pastéis de nata, but through an immersive interior designconceived by the acclaimed Znamy sie design studio. This project transcends mere bakery design; it’s a spatial poem dedicated to the thrill of surfing and the authentic flavours of Lisbon, masterfully blending conceptual design with tangible, sensorial experiences.
The inspiration for Pastelowe struck its founders during a Portuguese surfing vacation. Captivated by the ocean’s power and grace, they partnered with Znamy sie – the creative trio of Bogna Kawa-Nowak, Wojtek Nowak, and Monika Jokiel – to translate the very anatomy of surf waves into their Warsaw patisserie’s environment. The studio meticulously studied wave types – beach break, point break, and reef break – weaving their distinct characters into the interior architecture.
Stepping inside the 63 m² space, the coastal narrative unfolds. Gently rounded benches and strategically placed mirrors embody the safety and soft curve of a beach-break wave. Walls adorned with rhythmically arranged shelves echo the fluid, ordered power of a point-break wave. The undeniable centrepiece, however, is the undulating, tunnel-like counter. Crafted to mimic the dynamic, barrel-forming energy of a reef-break wave, it invites interaction and becomes a sculptural focal point. This thoughtful spatial composition, despite the compact footprint, fosters a sense of freedom and connection, allowing the story of the ocean’s varied strength to permeate the atmosphere.
Coastal colors and natural textures further anchor the Portuguese escape. Warm oak plywood evokes sun-bleached sandy beaches underfoot. Glossy steel and reflective foil surfaces capture the dazzling shimmer of sunlight on breaking waves. Above, the entire ceiling is clad in irregular yellow spray foam, its unique texture masterfully mimicking frothy sea foam. This bold choice bathes the interior in perpetual sunshine, banishing Warsaw’s grey skies. Accents of deep marine blue, drawn from the patisserie’s branding identity and reflected in metallic details, inject vibrant life, completing the seaside palette.
The Pastelowe project stands as a testament to how design storytelling can elevate a culinary experience. It’s more than a place to enjoy an authentic Portuguese custard tart; it’s a momentary portal crafted through architectural narrative. By harnessing the forms of waves, a palette inspired by the coast, and meticulous craftsmanship, Znamy Sie has created more than just a patisserie interior. They’ve bottled the essence of a sun-soaked, carefree Portuguese morning – a dream of waves, craftsmanship, and perfect pastry – offering a breath of Atlantic air right in the heart of Warsaw. This is restaurant design as escapism, where every detail, from the lighting design by Chors to the textural ceiling, contributes to an unforgettable, coastal-inspired space. Photography by Migdat Studiobeautifully captures this unique fusion of pastry shop and surf culture, solidifying Pastelowe as a must-visit destination for design and dessert lovers alike.