The World of Hospitality Issue 55 2023 | Page 40

Blending socializing , work and dining

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double-height steel mesh boxes elegantly frame the space , with an artificial skylight enhancing the illusion of an outdoor setting .
The café ’ s first two floors are thoughtfully dedicated to the dining area , offering various seating configurations . From the more typical bench tables to communal circular tables and island seating , these variations foster diverse social interactions among our guests , thereby creating distinct spatial experiences . Nestled in between , a half mezzanine level discreetly houses service programs such as the office and kitchen . The third floor caters to specialized uses , including a meeting room and a coffee brewing training room . The fourth floor , designed as a flexible room , holds potential for future expansion , ensuring adaptability .
Situated on a narrow plot , this four-story project faces a unique challenge with its 6m x 25m façade stretching 31m deep . Conventional architectural typology would rely on artificial lighting , but the essence of a successful coffee shop – abundant natural light and easy horizontal flow – contradicts this notion . The coffee shop is envisioned as a place for extended stays , blending socializing , work , and dining , thus demanding a warmly inviting ambiance .
The design employs a strategic arrangement of oblique concrete and mesh boxes interwoven across the site . A central void , illuminated by natural light penetrating through the main space , breaks through the vertical mass . Within this void , vibrant greenery , including trees and hanging plants , harmoniously coexists with a 25m tall mirror wall , infusing the café with a tropical and outdoor ambiance . The “ green void ” takes center stage , acting as the heart of the space from which every program radiates . In the primary dining area ,
The design embraces a unique blend of natural and industrial aesthetics , with exposed concrete and rugged steel beams at its core . Hints of green from the terrazzo flooring and abundant greenery infuse the space , forming a harmonious alliance between the industrial and the natural . The café exudes an industrial aesthetic while ingeniously incorporating elements of the outdoors , a conscious effort to bring the outside environment inside . The project is a testament to our aspiration to create an urban oasis , a hub for coffee enthusiasts , nestled within the bustling city .
Photos : Pieter Kurniawan
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