Inspired by the City
When designing the concept for ISTO, our starting point was its unique location – right in the heart of Katowice, next to the iconic Spodek arena. The city itself – its street grid, parcels, and urban rhythms – became the main inspiration for our design work.
The use of greys and graphite tones in the finishes directly references the mining heritage of the region, while golden accents evoke the evening city lights and reflections from cars rushing through the streets. These elements lend the interior a refined, urban character that strongly resonates with the energy of Katowice.
A key element of the design was the diversity of seating zones – from intimate booths and two-person tables to arrangements for larger groups – all intended to give guests the flexibility to adapt the space to the needs of any gathering.
At the heart of the venue is a centrally located bar, designed as the gravitational center of the entire interior – a meeting point full of energy, exchange, and vibrant atmosphere. It draws attention and sets the rhythm for the whole space.
The ISTO project is urban DNA captured in architecture – thoughtful, functional, and emotionally rooted in the place it was born.
