When it comes to architectural design, sometimes it's the smallest details that can make the biggest impact. This is exactly what Atelier L has achieved with their conical cafe pop-up in Beijing, named Kurasu Pop-up after its client, a Japanese coffee company. The pop-up kiosk, located in the Taikoo Li Santilun shopping center, is a refreshing contrast to its surroundings, which Atelier L co-founders Dake Li and Nan Lei describe as "generic box-style pop-ups."
What makes this project particularly fascinating is the inspiration behind its unique form. The two curved stainless-steel cones that house the cafe are inspired by the shape of coffee drippers, a nod to Kurasu's expertise in pour-over coffee. But there's more to it than meets the eye. Atelier L also drew upon the shared cultural history of paper folding between China and Japan, with the steel sheets of the cones echoing the graceful curves of folded paper.
"The diffuse reflection of the stainless steel facade turns it into a flowing canvas for street lighting, capturing the seasons and passersby," Li and Lei explained. This attention to detail and the interplay of light and reflection create a visually striking space that engages with its context, breaking away from the typical pop-up mold.
Inside, the larger cone houses the coffee bar, with an illuminated ceiling adding to the ambiance. The adjoining smaller cone is angled to create a funnel-shaped standing bar, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding trees through a circular pivot window. The interior design also reflects a thoughtful balance of aesthetics and functionality, with textured beige paint, aluminum panels, and wooden elements creating a warm and durable space.
One thing that immediately stands out to me is the way Atelier L has considered the practicalities of the busy street location. They've created an immersive coffee experience while elegantly resolving structural challenges posed by the sculptural form. With a tight construction timeline of just two months, the design had to strike a delicate balance between weather resistance, buildability, and the creation of a visually stunning space.
"On the first snowy day, when snow covered the vessel tops, the stainless steel reflected a black-and-white urban scene, and warm light glowed from inside, the design intent was fulfilled," Li and Lei shared. This attention to detail and the ability to create a unique, immersive experience within a temporary structure is a testament to the skill and creativity of Atelier L.
In my opinion, this project showcases the power of architectural design to transform a space and create a memorable experience. It's a beautiful example of how inspiration can be drawn from everyday objects and cultural traditions, resulting in a visually striking and contextually relevant design. Atelier L's Kurasu Pop-up is a welcome addition to the Beijing streetscape, offering a moment of tranquility and a unique coffee experience within a bustling shopping center.
