The American Best of Year Awards 2024 has announced its finalists, including projects from Ukrainian studios Yod Group and Balbek Bureau.
Lumo Bistro in Dnipro by Yod Group
This project is nominated in the Casual Dining category. The central feature of the venue is a rounded bar with a massive pendant light resembling a meringue. The illuminated bar is visible from the street and the nearby square.
"The inviting atmosphere of the venue is emphasized by curved forms: the pendants' lamp shades, the line of the bar counter, and the massive archway that separates the main dining area from the cloakroom and restrooms," says the team.
The primary materials used in the space are ceramic mosaics, metal, wood, and leather. The project's inspiration comes from modern Italy, particularly the fusion of its various cultural expressions, according to the studio.
Bonne Bouche Café and Pastry Shop in Mohyliv-Podilskyi by YOD Group This project is competing in the Coffee/Tea category. The café is located on the first floor of a post-Soviet residential building and features two rooms and two outdoor terraces on the surrounding area.
The first room receives natural light through panoramic windows, while the second room is more intimate. The main source of light in this room is a wall panel that functions as a "citylight," the team describes. The brightness of the panel changes throughout the day.
The design includes rounded chairs and stools from Ukrainian brands Noom and Woo, which "resemble desserts" in their shape.
Milla Nova Showroom in Warsaw by Balbek Bureau
The space is a finalist in the Fashion Retail category. The studio says they were inspired by the universe of Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey and "combined the elegance of dresses with the beauty of imaginary landscapes."
The reception desk in the showroom is made of stainless steel, and there is also handmade artificial stone. Almost 90% of the space’s elements were custom-made in partnership with Ukrainian contractors.
The winners will be announced on December 12 at the ceremony in New York.
