The CUI B (Center for Urban Good Initiatives) is a unique bistro that adorns the urban landscape of Iași.
This establishment stands out by representing a concept store that integrates a bistro serving ovo-lacto-vegetarian drinks and snacks made from local, natural ingredients; a shop for selling solidarity, ecological, and fair trade products; and a space for organizing socio-cultural and educational events.
C UI B is a project of the Mai Bine Association developed as a social enterprise where creative ideas, civic spirit, or simply good cheer are encouraged and incubated.
Andreea Ghiban, vice president of Asociatia Mai Bine and director of C UI B, has agreed to share some details about the construction of this bistro.
The fit-out works for this 100 square meter space took approximately 2 months, with a budget of around 7000 euros (for the space and furniture, excluding equipment). Reclaimed wood was primarily used as material.
Some of the furniture was custom-made, some tables were made by a close friend of C UI B, and the chairs were purchased second-hand and later refurbished.
From an interior design perspective, we are impressed by the multitude of decorative elements made from natural materials. If we were to categorize it into a style, C UI B could successfully fit into the Scandinavian style. The combination of white and wood is a preference of the Nordic style.
It is no surprise, as this style is always associated with bright spaces, plenty of natural light, clean and modern lines, decorated with natural materials, defined by light shades. Thus, the Scandinavian decor is admired by those who appreciate well-defined lines, simplicity of forms, their functionality, but also perfect beauty and elegance.
The lighting fixtures incorporating colored pencils and newspapers were created by volunteers from Asociatia Mai Bine, an association that promotes an environmentally friendly lifestyle and encourages young people to spend their free time in a way that gives meaning to everyday actions.
The space also features a small area showcasing products from other Romanian social enterprises or local producers for sale.
People who frequent C UI B are open-minded, friendly individuals who love sports, nature, and healthy food.
The terrace at C UI B also opened on May 1st, offering the same enchanting view as the bistro, the same relaxed, natural and comfortable atmosphere that convinced us to visit C UI B the first chance we get when we're in Iași.
