Design Brief

Aroma Shuwaikh is a Kuwaiti-owned roastery and cafe situated in the newly built 225 Mall. Despite the surrounding industrial buildings and car repair shops, the mall itself features a variety of shops and restaurants.

The cafe is situated in a 78 sqm space with existing conditions that include a spiral staircase and a mezzanine. One of the design challenges was the excessive exposure of ductwork and small ceilings that needed to be addressed in the design.

The ground level of the project features a bar, a roasting room, a seating area, and a bathroom. Despite the limited space, Aroma provides a captivating environment for coffee enthusiasts. The cafe bar offers a cozy atmosphere where visitors can indulge in expertly brewed coffee. Adjacent to the bar, the roasting room allows visitors to witness the art of coffee roasting up close. The mezzanine level includes another bar and a cupping area.

The Storefront design concept incorporates the use of masses and voids. We incorporated columns as mass guidelines while employing glass as the void to create a framed view. Additionally, we extended the bar area outside to serve as a seamless transition between the interior and exterior. Also, the facade is shifted inward, creating a shaded area where customers can enjoy their coffee. This addition allows for outdoor seating during pleasant weather conditions.

Specification & schedules

The Mezzanine

Upon reaching the mezzanine level, a dedicated cupping area awaits, featuring an inviting bar and a large communal table that caters to customers during non-cupping sessions. The use of wood flooring, metal and natural tones creates a comforting and pleasant experience. The space also incorporates display shelves and a vintage togo sofa, all complemented by decorative floor lamp.

Architecture