A communal gastronomic space where the fusion of outdoor and indoor is facilitated by KAV glass portals

BABA Budapest is not merely a restaurant; it is a space where one can feel at home throughout the day. The main principles of design focused on the seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces and the creation of a genuine sense of community experience. We had the opportunity to discuss the BABA with its lead designer, Dóra Fónagy, while sitting at one of its tables, and during our conversation, we ourselves experienced why it provides a truly unique experience.

What were the main directions during the design of the place?

By connecting the outdoor terrace with the indoor space, we aimed to create this spacious communal area. We could incorporate the landscape architecture scale of the large green trees outside into the interior, thus creating a unified, natural environment. Therefore, from the very beginning, our landscape architect colleague, György Zsigmond, participated in the creation of the design and visual strategy.

As one walks by the restaurant, it almost beckons them inside…

We didn’t think in terms of enclosed spaces but rather aimed to create a large communal space with the terrace. The exterior and interior are entirely connected with glass portals. Treating the outdoor and indoor areas as a single unit, we placed the bar counter with communal tables in the center, making it the focal point of the restaurant. This is surrounded by the guests. The airy façade was a significant advantage. It was a fantastic opportunity. I am glad we were able to solve it with KAV.

Moreover, with a quite bold idea, anyone passing by the building can see what is happening in the kitchen…

This is precisely what reinforces this sense of community, with the show kitchen placed prominently on the corner of the façade. It’s a reinforcing design concept representing the gastronomic consciousness of the clients.

I understand you had to pay attention to many things due to heritage conservation considerations…

The large-scale architectural space provided us with an exceptional opportunity to realize the landscape architectural concept and formulate the communal space within this approach. We integrated the original building structural materials, either partially or entirely, into the interior space, such as the formwork for the ceiling and the original concrete floor. We wanted to preserve the original value system in this way, thus creating value. Nature fits into this structure. When we talk about nature, we think about the interplay of light and shadow. This is also present outdoors. Just think about the shade cast by the canopy of leaves. Since we are in a communal space, we placed great emphasis on offering different table heights to provide a space experience that everyone can enjoy.

How was this project different from the others?

In the sense that we really thought on a large scale. Spaces are usually more segmented. This is why one of the highlighted directions during the creation of the design and visual strategy was the landscape scale. For us, it represents a genuine dimension of self-identity. Words like space, geometry, and impulse come to mind. Therefore, we placed a mirror association at the end of the space. It has the same effect as when you take a walk in a forest… You sense that there is depth. And there are courageous elements, such as the openness of the kitchen or placing the white sink along the central axis. We elevated these elements, which are usually in the background, to the foreground. You see someone washing dishes, but you don’t find it intrusive; it legitimizes its role. It is through the combination of all these elements that the space becomes truly sincere.

Indeed. As I observed the openness of the place and its employees, I felt that I could confidently sit down to work a bit before the interview…

Yes, that’s why it can function as a real communal space. When you come to visit me, I share the space with you, and you feel like it’s your own. Often, we go to a restaurant as if it were an event. Here, you arrive as if you were visiting someone’s home. You feel like it’s your own. This is why it can be a kind of base.

How would you describe your collaboration with KAV?

The team was helpful and solution-oriented. We were very pleased that we could jointly develop these innovative objectives. We worked together in a constructive manner. We are proud of our shared and valuable reference.

Photo: Gosztom Gergő

Bujnovszky Tamás