Designer's Note
The store embraces an innovative design inspired by the city’s urban dynamics and the natural wonder of Batu Caves. Spanning 20×5 meters with a 6-meter ceiling, it offers an unusual but inviting feel. We decided to integrate indoor comfort with an outdoor feel, mirroring a grotto’s ambiance with a 6-meter glass façade that blurs indoor-outdoor boundaries, while addressing the local climate demands and inviting customers to immerse in the Arabica experience.
To create a cave-like space, we used lime finished ceiling and walls configured in a step-like pattern that gradually shrink toward the store’s back, paying homage to Batu Caves and bringing perspective to the counter, where the process of coffee production is beautifully presented. The zigzag motif, representing Malaysian culture, intertwined with Japanese aesthetic elements, expresses beauty with the thoroughness of rhythm from its fittings and symbolizes % Arabica’s dedication to meticulous service.
Terrazzo flooring and wooden benches enhance the tactile and visual experience, evoking a blend of nature and craftsmanship. The specially designed focal lighting, the Chemex Suspended Lamps are inspired by water droplets usually seen from limestone grottos. Through meticulous attention to detail, this design seamlessly integrates cultural homage, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, embodying % Arabica’s commitment to excellence.
– Archiee
