CITRUS STUDIO is an architectural practice based in Bucharest, founded by Claudia Trufaș.
Having previous experience in different offices, locally and abroad, Claudia started her own practice under the name CITRUS, an acronym of her name (Claudia Ileana Trufaș)
The office is involved in small scale projects, focusing on the human experience, while working closely on the particularities of each project site and adapting to the specific context and necessities of the clients.
Atelier VRAC is a design studio established by Zenaida Florea and Cristi Bădescu. The moniker VRAC, translating to 'in bulk' in English, symbolizes their methodology - the storing and transporting of raw ideas in the form of 'granules' or 'pieces', stacked together in an unsorted pile.
Project description in English
Casa Victoria is a family business with a rich history spanning over 20 years, with a clear vision about its product. In this new phase of its evolution, our aim was to seamlessly blend the cherished tradition with a bold, contemporary design, forging a new and distinctive identity.
Drawing inspiration from the existing visual identity of the cake shop and the cakes themselves, we employed a palette of materials, colors, and textures that evoke a sense of familiarity. The dominant chocolate hue, accented with maroon undertones, flows seamlessly across the floor, walls, and ceiling, creating an intimate and inviting atmosphere. This thoughtful use of color and materiality serves as a backdrop for the bar area, a central feature of the space. The bar, designed as a continuous and cohesive element, houses all the essential equipment for the cake shop. Its unique color and texture set it apart from the rest of the space, establishing it as a focal point. Red metallic accents punctuate the bar, highlighting its various functional aspects. These details are not only decorative but also practical, offering support for handbags, steps for children, and holders for ice cream cones.
To enhance privacy without creating isolated booths, tables are strategically positioned at a 45-degree angle. Each table is highlighted by an oversized lampshade and complemented by lamps along the bench, contributing to a personalized and cozy atmosphere. The use of natural wood for the benches and tables introduces a domestic touch, contrasting with the rest of the space. Indoor vegetation adds a vital natural element, enhancing the ambiance and creating a sense of tranquility. This greenery is mirrored in the exterior design, establishing a harmonious relationship with the urban environment.
The exterior design balances the need to separate the seating area from the aggressive presence of cars and parking spaces with the desire to create a welcoming entrance for clients. Planters and vegetation play a crucial role in this design, while the simple, neutral-colored furniture integrates seamlessly into the urban context. This thoughtful arrangement allows the illuminated sign to stand out, guiding visitors to the cake shop.
