Taiu Ice Cream Shop by Sivak+Partners Studio: A Bold Fusion of Classicism and Contemporary Design in Odesa

Nestled in the heart of Odesa, Ukraine, the Taiu Ice Cream Shop stands as a striking example of interior renovation, where historic preservation meets modern design innovation. Designed by Sivak+Partners Studio, this 74-square-meter gelateria redefines the traditional aesthetic of ice cream parlors by weaving together elements of classical architecture with a contemporary metamodernist approach.

A Concept Born from Ice Cream – and Its Melting Point

“ТАЮ,” which translates from Ukrainian as “I’m melting,” is both the name and central concept of the space. The design draws direct inspiration from this idea—ice cream melting and morphing—serving as a metaphor for the transformation of architecture. In Taiu, the solid forms of classicism appear to dissolve, with ornate ceilings flowing into fluid, non-linear metal walls, blending the old and the new in a seamless narrative.

Historic Shell, Modern Soul

Situated in a heritage-listed building, the gelateria came with pre-existing, ornately decorated classical ceilings, which significantly influenced the project’s direction. Instead of masking or altering this rich historical detail, the architects embraced it. The ceiling became a central feature of the design, acting as a visual anchor that ties the contemporary elements back to the building’s origins.

Designing Around Constraints with Creative Precision

Preserving architectural integrity required innovative solutions. The building’s windows were sealed, and the richly ornamented ceiling could not be visually disturbed by modern mechanical systems. Sivak+Partners tackled this by cleverly concealing ventilation systems behind curved metal wall panels, mimicking the form of a melting architectural wave. This sculptural wave not only hid utilities but also defined the space visually and materially.

Material Choices and Spatial Harmony

The team selected simple, tactile materials that resonate with the idea of fluidity. The metal waves dominate the interior, bringing softness to the industrial finish and serving both aesthetic and functional purposes. These flowing surfaces create a continuous backdrop, allowing furniture by designers like Giandomenico Belotti and Marcel Breuer to punctuate the space without overwhelming it.

The use of purple plays a pivotal role in the identity of the shop. From the illuminated logo to the subtle lighting effects, purple tones reflect and refract across surfaces, changing the room’s ambiance throughout the day. The chromatic interplay adds a sense of dynamism to the small space, reinforcing the melting motif.

A New Chapter for Odesa’s Historic Fabric

With this project, Sivak+Partners have not only breathed new life into a previously shuttered venue but also introduced a compelling dialogue between old and new. Their ability to respect the architectural context while injecting a playful and daring contemporary spirit sets the Taiu Ice Cream Shop apart in Ukraine’s evolving interior design landscape.

This project reflects the studio’s broader philosophy: blending bold design language with sensitivity to architectural heritage. Taiu is not just an ice cream shop—it is a symbol of creative transformation, a melting point of eras, materials, and ideas.

All Photographs are works of  Yevhen Kariev