A cosy interior for a small business

This season, application for interior makeovers with "Home idea with IKEA" was open not only for individuals but also for small businesses. Interior designer Alla will face a very special challenge: a new interior for the production state/retail shop/tasting area of "Mītavas čiekurs". "Mītavas čiekurs" or "The pine cone of Mitau" is a family business and, not unlike many of the great names in business nowadays, it was born in a garage. Business owner and manager Reinis says he wishes the now stark and industrial interior would get some more warmth and cosines, so Alla sets out to fulfil this wish.

Production state in a garage

Where to start, when you have a business idea that needs a production state? An own garage is a natural go-to. Just like this, the 28 square meter "factory" was born. It is also a storage, a shop and a tasting studio. The interior is highly functional, but it lacks a cosy vibe much needed for the customers to feel at home and to feel the special passion the owner has for his business.

Pinecones as inspiration

The concept for "Mītavas čiekurs" is to use the power of nature as an inspiration for their products and thus it is no coincidence that interior designer Alla brings the family to get some inspiration for the new interior in an open-air activity. They meet chef Renārs and prepare a pine-cake as a tribute to Reinis's business. At the same time, Alla explores the family vibe to get the first ideas for the makeover.

From just functional to functional and cosy

The new interior is just as functional as the old one, but with a touch of cosiness that creates an atmosphere fit for a family business. The existing stainless steel appliances have been integrated and still form the core of the set-up, but have been balanced with some warm wood tones for storage and green wall colour as a hint to the natural origin of the products.
 

Nature in interior

In multifunctional spaces it is all about finding balance between the different functions. Here, it was important to show that this is a small business where every product is made with much individual attention and love. The warm moss green of the walls enhances the cosy feeling and reminds one of woods and earth. The wooden storage counteracts the coolness of the steel elements and brings warmth and personality, inviting customers to linger.

Storage solutions

In a space that is used as a storage, it is important to plan the furniture so that there would be enough place for big and small things without making everything look cluttered. A combination of open and closed shelves is great as it offers more diversity. Shelves can be complemented with same style or contrasting boxes to add storage for small stuff. A useful addition is a trolley that can be moved easily to wherever it is needed.