In the heart of Viljandi, Estonia, Studio Kuidas.works embarked on a groundbreaking project, creating Restaurant 0, a temporary dining space with a mission to showcase sustainable design practices.
A Zero-Waste Initiative
Participating in the Estonian TV series Restaurant 0, Studio Kuidas.works took on the challenge of constructing a restaurant within seven days at zero cost, emphasizing smart recycling and minimal environmental impact. Located in the ruins of a 19th-century sausage shop in Viljandi’s Old Town, the project garnered recognition at the Estonian Interior Architects Union Annual Award in 2021.
Crafting Sustainability Through Design
Faced with the task of building a restaurant with zero budget while minimizing environmental impact, Studio Kuidas.works embraced innovative design solutions. At the heart of the restaurant stood a 15-ton rammed-earth table, crafted using ancient techniques and natural materials. Local clay, sourced from nearby quarries, formed the foundation of this centerpiece, reflecting the region’s rich geological heritage.
Sustainable Materials and Practices
With a focus on sustainability, the studio utilized reclaimed materials for tableware, including wooden trays made from old floorboards and bowls crafted from repurposed glass jars. Steel plates and copper tube sleeves were repurposed to serve as drinking glass stands, further minimizing waste and environmental impact.
Promoting Awareness Through Design
Designed to accommodate 12 guests for a one-night-only dinner experience, the standing table encouraged mindfulness and presence, fostering a deeper connection to the dining environment. By challenging comfort norms, Studio Kuidas.works aimed to spark conversations about ecological issues within the design and building industry.
Shifting Paradigms
As Studio Kuidas.works continues its journey, the team seeks to expand the reach of low-tech design and natural building methods. By advocating for sustainability as an upgrade rather than a compromise, the studio strives to normalize eco-conscious design practices and inspire positive change within the industry.
Through Restaurant 0, Studio Kuidas.works demonstrates the transformative power of sustainable design, proving that innovation and environmental responsibility can coexist harmoniously, setting a new standard for the future of architecture and design.
