The humble ethos of the culinary offerings is masterfully reflected in destilat’s interior design that aims to restore the original spartan character of the landmarked building while sparsely furnishing the space through an aesthetic of radical modernism and subtle playfulness. The designers summarize this approach as a quest “for innovations that appear familiar, for provocations that touch our inner self, for functional gravity that makes us laugh”.

By removing the false ceiling that the previous occupant had installed, a vaulted roof has been revealed that harks back to the centuries-old masonry structure, while the original walls and flooring have been meticulously restored whenever possible. The décor has been kept to a minimum with concealed lighting enhancing the ascetic architecture and pendant lights with phantom lampshades injecting an austere playfulness, while Scandinavian designer armchairs invoke a restrained sophistication.

Mirroring the chefs’ practice of using locally sourced products, the interiors have been constructed by predominately local craftsmen using local materials, such as the smoked oak and sheet metal bar counter. The practice also applies to the restaurant’s tableware with bespoke ceramics made by small pottery studio bern.ceramics in neighbouring Seewalchen am Attersee, and exquisite wooden bowls from Reichraming-based timber supplier Christian Kleinhagauer.

In order to maintain a connection between diners and the kitchen, which the restaurant’s chefs had requested, the dining area features a window that allows patrons to catch glimpses of the chefs working, while the bar area is only separated from the kitchen with a serving counter. A small reception-cum-lounge and a private dining room featuring a display area for books and handicrafts made by local artisans complete the modest interiors that discretely make way for the food to take centre stage.