Balagan is a three-level gastromarket in the Petrogradsky district of St. Petersburg.
The building's layout, pointed inwards, was originally prompted by its purpose. From the late 19th century it housed a market, and later, in the 70s of the 20th century, at the dusk of the USSR, one of the first ‘Universal Stores’ (or as we know them - supermarkets) in Leningrad.
We were inspired by the idea of returning the place to its historical function and at the same time adapting it to the needs of modern citizens.
In the centre, under a huge coffered dome, there is an atrium with the main seats, while the perimeter is grouped with corners of various gastroprojects. Within the seating scheme, we have taken into account the needs of different types of market guests. There are both noisy communal tables on the ground floor and an elegant restaurant area at the very top.
As a reference to the history of the building, we have combined modern trends with Soviet aesthetic items found at flea markets. The entire interior of the gastromarket is filled with references to the Soviet style: crystal chandeliers, carpets, Soviet bus seats, and the legendary PO-2 concrete fence (the most widespread fence in the USSR). And on the top floor, there are booths of the Soviet Ferris wheel - a favourite childhood attraction - with separate tables inside.
The three-level space is united by a huge mural, the main reference for which is a Soviet mosaic.
The gastromarket is organically blended into the urban context and has become a place of attraction for the citizens. The Balagan Gastromarket is imbued with the vibe of celebration of life and light nostalgia for the Soviet era. Every guest of the market will find a comfortable spot to enjoy delicious food and an echo of Soviet aesthetics.
