Restaurant design is a delicate balance of form, function, and history—a craft that captures the essence of a place, inviting guests to experience both the atmosphere and story it holds. Bistro Caramello in Sinaia, Romania, designed by Tiuga Studio, is a prime example of such a transformation. This historic establishment embodies more than just a dining space; it’s a revival of a legacy that dates back over a hundred years, infused with French charm and modern elegance.
A century ago, Pelias Kalimtzakis, a distinguished Cretan pastry chef, and his French wife, Aline, chose the picturesque town of Sinaia as their new home. There, they inaugurated a multifaceted establishment that operated as a restaurant, café, and confectionery. The locale quickly gained fame, becoming a favored haunt for Bucharest’s elite and international visitors. The couple’s sociable son, an actor, attracted illustrious figures, including Tony Bulandra, Joujou Pavelescu, Jean Moscopol, Elvira Godeanu, Mihail Sebastian, and George Enescu. Such was the fame of the Kalimtzakis confectionery that British lord Sacheverel Sitwell praised it in his 1938 book as one of Europe’s finest. However, nationalization and years of communist rule led the establishment into decline.
In 2024, a new chapter began under the vision of architect Alina Larisa Tugulan and Diana Cojocaru, who embarked on an ambitious project to transform the historic Kalimtzakis building into Bistro Caramello. Located at 27 Octavian Goga Street, opposite Dimitrie Ghica Park, the redesign honors the building’s heritage while infusing it with contemporary sophistication. Tiuga Studio’s vision for Bistro Caramello draws from the charm of French aesthetics, reflecting a sense of timeless elegance inspired by the clients’ experiences in France. The interior design carefully balances classical elements with modern touches, preserving the spirit of old Sinaia and the Kalimtzakis legacy.
Crafting Atmosphere with Color and Materials
Color plays a crucial role in defining the atmosphere of Bistro Caramello. Tiuga Studio selected a forest green palette with gold accents to evoke the elegance of French bistros while maintaining a sense of refinement suited to the building’s historic roots. The dark green walls, paired with rich burgundy seating, establish an ambiance of warmth and sophistication, while green marble on the bar elevates the space, infusing it with an opulent, timeless quality. The choice of materials—plush upholstery, polished wood, and marble—are not just visually stunning but also serve practical purposes, adding durability and acoustic balance within the bustling environment of a restaurant.
Beyond aesthetics, these materials also honor the history of the space, reminiscent of the luxurious interiors that would have graced the café during its prime years. Tiuga Studio has used the elements of color and texture to craft an environment that feels both historically rich and inviting, ensuring that Bistro Caramello stands as a beacon of elegance in modern-day Sinaia.
Architectural Detailing: A Nod to History
Architectural detailing is integral to the design, reflecting Tiuga Studio’s dedication to merging heritage with contemporary style. The studio has preserved original architectural elements, such as moldings and paneling, while introducing new features that harmonize with the building’s classic structure. Wall paneling in deep green, adorned with golden accents, recalls 19th-century Parisian bistros and adds depth to the space. Ceiling medallions and chandeliers with intricate detailing further enrich the interior, drawing the eye upward and creating a sense of grandeur.
The bar area, framed by marble arches, serves as the focal point of the restaurant, showcasing bottles with a symmetry that speaks to traditional European elegance. This architectural element not only centers the space visually but creates a sophisticated backdrop that enhances the luxurious ambiance of Bistro Caramello. The addition of whimsical artwork—such as portraits of animals dressed in aristocratic attire—adds a playful, modern touch, balancing the classic atmosphere with a hint of contemporary charm.
Furniture and Spatial Flow: The Elegance of Function
The furniture layout in Bistro Caramello reflects Tiuga Studio’s attention to both function and form, arranging spaces for social engagement and intimate gatherings alike. Round tables, plush banquettes, and high-backed burgundy chairs echo the layout of classic French cafés, creating intimate zones within the open floor plan. The combination of seating options allows for flexibility, accommodating a variety of dining experiences, from small gatherings to celebratory meals.
This thoughtful arrangement prioritizes comfort without sacrificing style. Each piece of furniture is selected to enhance the refined aesthetic, with finishes and textures that blend seamlessly into the overall design. Banquette seating, upholstered in deep burgundy, lines the walls and provides comfortable seating while enhancing the acoustics of the space, reducing ambient noise for a more private dining experience.
Lighting: Layering Ambiance with Elegance
Lighting is a crucial element in Bistro Caramello’s ambiance, adding warmth and depth to the historic interior. The layered lighting includes chandeliers, sconces, and pendant lights that bring a soft glow to the rich green and burgundy palette. Chandeliers with crystal details evoke vintage elegance, casting light that highlights the restaurant’s intricate detailing. The carefully placed sconces and pendants provide balance, ensuring that each part of the space is well-lit while maintaining an intimate atmosphere.
By day, natural light floods the dining area through large windows, while the evening lighting creates a cozy, inviting environment, ideal for lingering conversations over dinner or a late-night drink. Tiuga Studio’s meticulous approach to lighting design enhances the immersive experience, reinforcing Bistro Caramello’s identity as a refined yet approachable space.
Reviving the Legacy of Kalimtzakis
Through its redesign, Tiuga Studio has not only revitalized a historical landmark but has honored the legacy of the Kalimtzakis family, who once made this location one of the most celebrated establishments between Bucharest and Brasov. The blend of French-inspired decor, architectural detail, and luxurious materials creates an atmosphere that harks back to the glamour of interwar Sinaia, while remaining relevant to contemporary patrons.
With this transformation, Tiuga Studio has crafted Bistro Caramello into a restaurant that balances history with modernity, sophistication with comfort. It stands as a testament to Sinaia’s rich cultural heritage and its vibrant future, once again attracting visitors both local and international. Bistro Caramello is more than a restaurant; it’s an homage to a bygone era, revived with elegance and care for a new generation of diners to enjoy.
