Pizzeria 22k: A Modern Culinary Haven in Vienna’s Industrial Landmark

Located in the heart of Vienna, Austria, Pizzeria 22k by renowned chefs Sebastian Rossbach and Marco Barth transforms a historic industrial space into a cutting-edge, casual dining experience. Designed by the acclaimed architecture studio destilat, this 50 m² restaurant celebrates the heritage of its home: the legendary Peter Behrens tobacco factory, Austria's first steel skeleton building, constructed between 1925 and 1939 in the New Objectivity style.

Heritage Meets Contemporary Design

The pizzeria occupies the "Falk building," a functionalist industrial gem, where the challenge lay in respecting strict monument protection regulations. With the original floor plan preserved, destilat embraced the existing 50 m² space, layering it in a striking, deep-black palette. The poured asphalt floor became the foundation for a bold interior that balances industrial history with modern sophistication.

All wooden elements in the space were meticulously charred using the traditional Japanese Shou Sugi Ban technique. This ancient method not only enhances durability and water resistance but also creates a nuanced aesthetic of varying dark shades, harmonizing perfectly with the restaurant’s monochromatic theme.

Iconic Interior Features

At the heart of the design lies a central bar crafted from recycled red plane bricks. Stacked in a honeycomb pattern, the bricks are lined with dark joint compound, sanded to perfection, and edged with sleek black sheet metal. When backlit, this bar emerges as a sculptural focal point, providing a warm contrast to the otherwise dark interior.

The elegant black Thonet seating complements the industrial aesthetic while offering timeless comfort, creating a dining environment that is both intimate and visually arresting. The interplay between raw materials and refined design elevates the space, turning everyday dining into an immersive architectural experience.

Philosophy: Bold Respect for History

According to destilat, designing within a listed building requires a balance of reverence and audacity: “Listed buildings are best approached with great appreciation, but by no means with fear. Instead of bowing to history, we confront the industrial monument with an equally strong interior design.” This philosophy is evident throughout Pizzeria 22k, where historical architecture and contemporary design coexist seamlessly.

Culinary and Design Excellence

Pizzeria 22k is not only an architectural statement but also a culinary playground. Rossbach and Barth, already celebrated for their work at Rossbarth Restaurant, bring the same innovative approach to this casual venue. Here, traditional Italian pizzas meet Vienna’s urban energy, served in a space that embodies creativity, sustainability, and craftsmanship.

All photographs are works of  Jürgen Grünwald