The new book cafe Marks which presents books by German publishers Taschen and Gestalten, is located in the very center of Minsk, in a beautiful house of cultural value built in 1936. The 200 m²space used to be occupied by a department store, so the designer had to completely reorganize the space.

The original architectural background of the space was excellent: large windows overlooking the theater square, correct geometry and the possibility to change the layout to suit the project. The coffee shop and bookstore area was designed at an area of 126 m², leaving the rest of the space for a full-scale, technically equipped kitchen. 

At first the designer intended to zone the space firmly, but in the process of work the mix-up of zones of different purposes turned out to be the most successful option, adding creative charm and peculiar coziness to the cafe.

When designing the interior of public spaces, one of the most difficult tasks is the right lighting, which should not only create a pleasant atmosphere, but also be professional. Large windows make for a lot of sunlight in the cafe during the day. And for the evening and overcast weather the designer has thought over a scenario of subdued light, using sconces, illumination of shelves and bar area. 

The self-contained beauty of books by Taschen and Gestalten, which inspired Anna, set the color rhythm and influenced the choice of calm shades for the walls and ceilings, which are finished with large-format porcelain stoneware by Laminam. A unique addition to the interior were the works by sculptor Olga Orsik and artist Elena Korshak.