Tristan & Ju’s Anagram Coffee Brews Architectural Creativity in the Smallest Space

In the realm of architectural ingenuity, Anagram Coffee, designed by Tristan & Ju, stands out as a testament to transforming the act of making specialty coffee into an art form. Nestled within the confines of the smallest floor plate ever undertaken by the designers, Anagram Coffee goes beyond mere functionality to present a captivating display of showmanship, craftsmanship, and the essence of the coffee-making process.

Theatrical Elegance in a Tiny Space

The primary design objective for Anagram was to elevate the act of crafting specialty coffee into a theatrical performance. The main counter at the heart of this diminutive hole-in-the-wall establishment, akin to a thrust stage in a theater, accentuates the intimate interaction between the barista and the customers. Despite the tight space, the considerable size of the counter aims to immerse customers in the spectacle of coffee creation.

The irregular form of the counter, featuring raised platforms at both ends serving as a bar and point of sale (POS), further enhances the visual drama. This intentional design invites customers to become active spectators, participating in the unfolding performance and fostering seamless engagement between the barista and the audience.

Innovative Solutions to Compact Constraints

Given the compactness of the space, creative solutions were implemented to counteract potential visual and physical constraints. An artificial skylight, taking advantage of the existing high ceiling at the front, mimics natural daylight, creating a welcoming sense of arrival. A suspended inverted U-shaped ceiling hangs lower in the middle, framing the central coffee-making area and concealing mechanical ducting.

The ceiling design culminates in a rise towards the rear, where a substantial paper lantern light is strategically positioned above the bar, adding a dramatic touch at a lower level to anchor the room. These architectural elements not only serve functional purposes but also contribute to the overall ambiance and visual appeal of Anagram Coffee.

Reimagining Coffee Culture

Anagram Coffee's design aligns with the client's vision of presenting it as a place where customers enjoy and discuss coffee, deviating from the conventional sit-down lounge cafe model. The main seating consists of an askew, narrow built-in bench along one wall and bespoke side tables with jagged stone tops. These unconventional seating arrangements resemble sculptural pieces in an art gallery, adding an element of intrigue.

Complementing the asymmetrical seating, a similarly angled working counter mirrors the opposite wall, creating a subtle yet visually engaging balance. Secondary elements, primarily storage, are seamlessly integrated into the design, concealed along the three walls. Rustic window frames, cleverly backlit from the inside, create a playful dialogue within the plain surfaces, evoking a sense of curiosity and wonder.

A Symphony of Tones and Textures

To maintain harmony within this compact space, the design embraces a neutral palette of tone-on-tone, with rust-brown accents mirroring the rich hues of coffee. The play of subtle contrasts comes to life through varied plastering techniques that mimic granite and travertine on walls, carpentry, and benches. Actual stone is used for counters, creating a calming and aesthetically pleasing respite within the confines of limited square footage.

Anagram Coffee, through its innovative design by Tristan & Ju, not only redefines the traditional coffee shop but also sets a new standard for turning a modest space into a captivating stage for the art of specialty coffee creation. The result is a fusion of functionality and aesthetics, where every element contributes to a unique and immersive coffee experience.