Bordering green
The project focuses on designing an all-day café within a 140m² corner shop located at a central point of the settlement, benefiting from views of tall deciduous trees on both sides, thus enhancing its ambiance.
Design Philosophy
The primary goal of the design is to create a seamless connection between the interior and the surrounding greenery by extending the visual lines outward to the natural environment and bringing “green” elements indoors. This approach aims to establish a “garden” that serves as a continuation of the urban vegetation.
Spatial Organization
The floor plan is centered around a large L-shaped bar that extends toward the corner near the openings. This design, combined with the installation of expansive glazed windows, maximizes the views, while seating is arranged freely within the café-bar across two levels: one at ground level and another one slightly elevated.
Custom Structures & Materials
A system of Π-shaped metal structures is incorporated to support greenery, with a similar hanging structure placed above the bar, adorned with lush climbing plants. The material palette is intentionally divided into two contrasting categories. The first includes natural and handcrafted elements, such as the cast mosaic of the bar, the floor mosaic, cement mortars on the walls, and wooden surfaces. The second consists of industrial materials, such as metal mesh and steel, used in the planting structures and the façade frames.
Lighting Design
The lighting is designed to emphasize the interior greenery, creating, in parallel, a distinct ambiance. More specifically, the careful light installation enhances the industrial character of the project, offering a unique experience, especially at nighttime.