In the bustling culinary scene of Riga keeping an interior fresh and relevant is as important as the menu itself. Located at Pulkveža Brieža Street 2, Restaurant KID has long been a favorite spot for locals seeking comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere. In 2014 our studio Barbara Bula Arhitekti was invited to lead a make-over of the existing space. This project was not a complete demolition but a strategic renovation. Our goal was to inject new life into the 150 square meter venue through a soft and playful transformation. We aimed to retain the soul of the restaurant while updating its visual identity to be more vibrant and engaging for a modern clientele. This project serves as a perfect case study in how targeted interior design interventions can have a massive impact on the feel and function of a hospitality space.
The Philosophy of the Make-Over
Renovation often implies heavy construction, but a makeover is about finesse. It is about identifying the strengths of an existing space and enhancing them while correcting the weaknesses. For Restaurant KID the client wanted a refresh that would feel significant without requiring a long closure or a complete structural overhaul.
Our approach was centered on the concept of soft renovation. We focused on elements that are tactile and visual. We looked at upholstery, color and decorative details. We wanted to create a feeling of lightness and joy. The existing restaurant had good bones, but the atmosphere had become a bit tired. We saw an opportunity to introduce a more playful character. We wanted to create a space that feels like a sunny living room where guests can relax and linger. This strategy proves that restaurant design is also about reusing and adapting rather than always building from scratch.
A Symphony of Soft Colors
The most immediate change we implemented was in the color palette. We moved away from safe neutrals and embraced a more expressive range of hues. We selected colors that stimulate the appetite and provoke a sense of happiness.
Soft pastels were paired with bolder accents to create a dynamic visual rhythm. We used shades of mint green, dusty pink and warm yellow. These colors work together to create a fresh and inviting environment. The walls were treated as canvases for color blocking. This technique allows us to define different zones within the open plan space without using physical barriers. The result is a dining room that feels spacious yet intimate. The new color scheme interacts beautifully with the natural light entering from the street changing its character throughout the day from a bright lunch spot to a cozy dinner venue.
The Art of Upholstery
In a restaurant comfort is non-negotiable. The furniture is the primary point of physical contact for the guest. Therefore, a significant portion of the renovation budget and effort was directed towards new upholstery.
We did not just recover the existing chairs. We reimagined them by selecting fabrics that are not only durable enough for commercial use but also rich in texture. Velvet and high-quality woven textiles were chosen to add a layer of tactile luxury. We played with patterns and piping details to give the furniture a bespoke look. The banquettes were given a fresh identity with deep buttoning and contrasting throw pillows. This attention to soft furnishings creates a sense of hygge or coziness. It invites the guest to sink in and relax. It transforms a standard chair into a seat you do not want to leave.
Interior Elements
Beyond the furniture and the paint, we introduced some peace of interior elements that act as focal points. These are the details that give a restaurant its unique personality.
We designed custom joinery units that serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose. Open shelving displays wine bottles, potted plants adding life and greenery to the space. We also introduced new lighting fixtures. We chose lamps with organic shapes and warm materials like copper and wood. These fixtures hang low over the tables creating intimate pools of light that focus attention on the food and the company.
Art played a role in the make-over as well. We curated a selection of playful prints and illustrations that reflect the KID name without being childish. These artworks add a layer of wit and whimsy to the walls. They act as conversation starters for guests and reinforce the relaxed and friendly brand image of the restaurant.
Functional Improvements
While the aesthetic changes were the most visible, we also addressed some functional aspects of the interior design. A restaurant must work efficiently for the staff as well as the guests.
We evaluated the flow of service and made subtle adjustments to the layout. By repositioning some of the tables and waiter stations we improved the circulation paths. This ensures that the staff can move freely even when the restaurant is full. The introduction of more soft materials like curtains and upholstered panels helps to dampen the noise levels. This creates a more pleasant acoustic environment where guests can hear each other speak without shouting. This technical consideration is a crucial part of our hospitality design expertise.
The Role of the Architecture Studio
This project highlights the versatility of Barbara Bula Arhitekti. We are known for large scale architectural projects, but we are equally passionate about smaller interior interventions.
Working on a 150 square meter make-over requires a different set of skills than designing a new building. It requires agility and a keen eye for detail. We had to work quickly to minimize downtime for the client. We had to be resourceful with the budget, finding creative solutions that deliver high impact at a reasonable cost. The success of the Restaurant KID renovation demonstrates our ability to listen to the client and deliver a result that exceeds expectations regardless of the project scale.
The Restaurant KID Make over is a testament to the power of color and comfort. It shows that a space can be completely transformed without moving a single wall.
We have created a restaurant that feels brand new yet familiar. It is a place that welcomes its regulars back with a smile and attracts new customers with its vibrant energy. By focusing on soft and playful renovation techniques we have extended the life of the venue and improved the quality of the dining experience. We are proud to have partnered with Cantus SIA on this journey. This project remains a bright spot in our portfolio proving that sometimes a little bit of color and care is all you need to make a big difference. We invite you to visit Restaurant KID and experience the joy of our design firsthand.