Project: Café Redesign
Type: Commercial Interior Design
Year: 2023
Objective: to provide a cozy and inviting space for socialising and unwinding while also serving as a platform for students to showcase their artwork, fostering creativity and exploration in alignment with its "hidden gem" theme.
The Hidden Gem Café is a warm, welcoming, and vibrant space that stands out as a unique and special haven in a secluded corner of the campus. The café’s design elements emphasises the cozy and relaxing atmosphere, with warm and inviting colours, comfortable seating, and mood lighting that sets the tone for an optimal socialising and unwinding experience. The café will also serve as a space for students to exhibit their artwork. By showcasing art pieces, it aims to create a supportive environment that sparks creativity and encourages exploration and discovery, which aligns with the theme of a hidden gem.
Outdoor seating area
In the outdoor seating area, the original bench was retained for sustainability and cost-efficiency reasons, providing practical seating for short-term visitors. To ensure a cohesive design, the bench was cladded with terrazzo tiles matching the indoor floor. The existing metal shading was preserved and enhanced with greenery for intimacy, creating a hidden gem ambiance. Exterior columns were also covered in wooden slats to maintain a consistent aesthetic.
Outdoor seating area
Expanding the outdoor seating area, an additional bench has been incorporated to accommodate a larger number of visitors. This seating arrangement is particularly well-suited for individuals or smaller groups of two.
Entrance and ordering area
This is the main entrance of the Hidden Gem Café. The existing counter is retained, but it has been given a new look by covering it with a deep red marble, resembling a red ruby in line with the hidden gem concept.
Indoor seating area
In the indoor seating area, the existing bench is being preserved, undergoing sanding and staining to match the café's design. Furthermore, the cushions are being reupholstered for a fresh and updated appearance. Pendant lamps with warm lighting have been introduced as decorative elements, enhancing the overall ambiance of the space.
Art display area
The art display area is a place where students can exhibit their artworks. The goal is to foster a sense of curiosity and encourage discovery, which goes hand-in-hand with the overall theme of uncovering a hidden gem.
When designing the floor plan, careful consideration was given to defining the different zones to facilitate efficient circulation and prevent congestion zones. Additionally, to make the café easily accessible for everyone, spacious pathways have been ensured.
