New restaurant in Design District of Helsinki inspired by Baltic nature and nomadic attitude
In this restaurant the curiosity of an adventurer has united with years of experience in hospitality and fine dining. It is a story about partnership and passion — for the gifts of nature, gastronomical discoveries, arts and crafts. The desire of the team to create a place to share these experiences has eventually led to the opening of Boreal in the heart of Helsinki, inspired by the northern forests and wildlife.
Boreal is the definition of a place that feels like home to many: its multi-coded interior and cuisine seem familiar at first, but never fail to surprise
Boreal offers its guests to enjoy their meal in a communal hall, observing the action in kitchen and bar areas, or to choose a secluded dining space perfect for special events and hosted dinners.
The atmosphere of the great outdoors is supported by a diffused amber-toned lighting mimicking the Northern lights: its reflection in a dark glossy tile reminds of the mysterious surface of the lake.
While designing this place we have been balancing between the peculiarities that define the image of the Baltic region and its kinship with other cultures. Nomadic openness is expressed in the use of materials which are global and recognizable by many: it is the subtle detailing that makes timber, ceramics and weaving truly unique.
Casual geometry and practical solutions are our nod to Finnish organic and user-friendly design: for example, the central column is hugged by an ergonomic ring of the waiters’ station.
Pikkuharjus by Carlo Raymann, Lokal Helsinki
Kaika by Yukari Hotta
Ex-voto wooden heart, Brazilian artisans Rush by Sasha Huber, Lokal Helsinki
Flame by Janna Syvänoja
The interior can also boast an array of pieces by Scandinavian artists as well as some of unexpected décor additions collected around the world
Some details were hand-made by the restaurant’s team. For example, the centrepiece lamps above dining tables are crafted from kombucha: its warm translucent glow forms a striking contrast with broderie anglaise cloth.
The diversity of details and textures in this interior is united by a repeating motif of a red line, which runs along the walls of the restaurant.
This detail is echoed in the straps on the central column, textile handles of the wardrobe and in the stitching of the textile screens, becoming a guide through the vibrant space of Boreal.
Most of the restaurant’s furniture was made by local workshop Verstas after our designs.
