Los Angeles, United States, 2026-07-13 -  SOIA Design unveils Mamuli, a restaurant in Krasnodar that redefines cultural storytelling through interior design. Drawing inspiration from Georgia’s rich traditions while embracing cutting-edge aesthetics, the project transcends the boundaries of hospitality design. The result is a layered, immersive environment where heritage and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.

A Client’s Vision, A Designer’s Challenge

The clients approached SOIA Design with a bold request: to create a restaurant that honors Georgian culture yet avoids the clichés often seen in themed interiors. They wanted a space that would captivate a contemporary audience, stand apart from competitors, and elevate the dining experience into something memorable. Functionality was equally important — the venue needed to accommodate intimate dinners, lively cultural events, and family gatherings with flexibility, all without compromising its unique character.

This challenge resonated with SOIA Design’s philosophy. For Anton and Ekaterina Baklan, founders of the studio, the project became an opportunity to craft a narrative where traditional motifs are not replicated but reimagined, giving the space both emotional resonance and modern appeal.

Weaving Heritage Into Modern Design

At Mamuli, every design decision reflects a dialogue between past and present. Warm tones dominate the material palette, creating an atmosphere of hospitality that is both comforting and sophisticated. Walls finished with subtle gold plaster bring a soft glow, suggesting luxury without ostentation.

Custom-designed beehive-shaped chandeliers, inspired by Georgian architecture, hover above the dining hall as sculptural centerpieces. In contrast, the black peppercorn-shaped balusters pay homage to the country’s deep-rooted love for spices, adding an unexpected tactile detail. Together, these elements express cultural identity through symbolic artistry.

The furniture and millwork are equally bespoke. From zigzag-patterned wooden column cladding to tables carved from tree trunk slices, every piece is designed to highlight craftsmanship and material authenticity. A fireplace built directly into a dining table creates a surprising focal point, merging intimacy with spectacle. The bar counter and shelving were tailor-made to frame the restaurant’s vibrant social life, while one-of-a-kind chandeliers function as luminous works of art.

A Multifunctional Experience

The spatial planning balances aesthetic ambition with pragmatic flexibility. Varied seating arrangements allow for both private dining and communal gatherings, while a dedicated tasting room immerses guests in the nuances of Georgian wine and cuisine. A stage anchors the cultural program, transforming the restaurant into a venue for live performances, tastings, and celebrations. Families are also embraced in the design, with a children’s playroom seamlessly integrated into the plan.

Even the restrooms continue the storytelling, designed with the same rigor and authenticity as the main dining areas. Every corner of Mamuli reinforces the brand’s identity, ensuring a cohesive, immersive experience for visitors.

Beyond a Restaurant

For SOIA Design, Mamuli is more than a dining destination — it is an architectural and cultural statement. By weaving traditional references into a contemporary framework, the studio created a space that embodies Georgian warmth while appealing to a cosmopolitan audience.

The result is a restaurant that doesn’t simply serve food but stages an atmosphere: one that celebrates heritage, embraces innovation, and leaves a lasting impression on every guest who steps inside.