Ninth Coffee Shop, nestled on the ground floor of Shanghai Changfeng Joy City, embodies a unique urban ambiance within the bustling shopping mall. Positioned in the outdoor atrium, the café benefits from an alluring outdoor climate and a vibrant street neighborhood feel, setting the stage for a one-of-a-kind coffee experience. At the heart of the design is the “anchor”: the Kiosk, akin to a small pavilion in a public square, beckoning pedestrians from all directions and serving as a hub for trade and interaction.
A Bold Design Approach
In a departure from conventional café layouts, STUDIO FSJ boldly situates the counter at the forefront of the space, offering patrons a firsthand view of the coffee-making process. Flanked by two entries on either side, the Kiosk stands as an island, inviting customers to stop and linger as they pass by. The Kiosk’s commanding presence extends seamlessly into the interior, delineated by a continuous, cave-like terrazzo structure that defines various functional zones within the café, including the coffee-making area, cashier station, storage, and dining space.
Sculpting Spatial Dynamics
Echoing the organic contours of excavated stone, the terrazzo structure meanders along the original column, bending gracefully near the center of the plot before culminating at the outermost corner. This architectural intervention not only imbues the space with a sense of fluidity but also creates dynamic diagonal views within the regular plot line, fostering visual interest and spatial intrigue. Contrasting with the weightiness of the terrazzo, the façade exudes an air of lightness through translucent glass and delicate structural elements.
Inviting Interaction and Engagement
Along the expansive façade, a leaf-shaped seating area gently curves inwards, enveloping passers-by and encouraging moments of connection and repose. Warm cherry wood rods adorn the exterior, striking a balance between openness and intimacy, while infusing the space with a welcoming ambiance. By relinquishing certain areas within the designated boundaries and activating them for engagement, the café blurs the lines between interior and exterior, fostering a sense of community while enlivening the mall corridor with its vibrant presence.
A Fusion of Design and Functionality
Ninth Coffee Shop stands as a testament to innovative design thinking, seamlessly blending aesthetic appeal with practical functionality to create a dynamic urban oasis. With its bold architectural gestures and thoughtful spatial arrangements, the café offers patrons a multisensory experience that transcends the ordinary, inviting them to savor the delights of coffee culture amidst a backdrop of urban sophistication.
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