Edited by Toby maxwell
DESIGN STUDIO Concentrico created the interior scheme for Kali Coffee Roasters, a Mexican company established by cafetaleros (coffee producers) with over 30 years of experience in growing coffee in rural areas around Chiapas, Mexico.
Kali, which means ‘home’ in the native Nahuatl language, embodies the company’s philosophy and beliefs. The culture’s agricultural richness and values have passed down through generations. When analysing the context and the living conditions of the community, Concentrico stumbled upon their homes that are constructed with wood and dirt walls, with handmade clay tiles on the ceiling to protect against rain. Using the clay tiles as part of the interior design on the walls not only conveys their ways of life, but also offers a unique and warm texture that functions as an ambiance trademark for the brand.
The clay tiles have a powerful visual impact, while their curvature and material properties absorb and deflect sound waves to help with acoustics. Image Credit: Apertura Arquitectónica/Recording Architecture
This clay-piece arrangement and lattice have a powerful visual impact, and their curvature and material properties absorb and deflect sound waves to help with acoustics. When the light is set against the texture, it acquires depth, and its curved shadows resemble coffee beans that connect the space to the product.
The coffee bar is intentionally positioned where every client can see it, forming the heart of the project. The open and industrial-like design promotes interactions between the customers and the staff.
Time played a significant role in the concept, portrayed by the walnut wood used at the base of the bar and booths. Its grain is intended to resemble the ground layers that document the passing of time and reflect the long and patient steps involved in the coffee-making process from crop to cup.
All of this is done sustainably by Finca La Fortaleza, where the coffee being harvested is certified by the Rainforest Alliance, which promotes biodiversity and natural resource conservation, effective planting and farm management systems, and improving the livelihood and well-being of every member of the community.
The clay tiles have a powerful visual impact, while their curvature and material properties absorb and deflect sound waves to help with acoustics. Image Credit: Apertura Arquitectónica/Recording Architecture
In homage to this process, all furniture and light fixtures were custom-designed in collaboration with Ok Design Studio, through a meticulous process of observing the materials, textiles and local designs, and then reinterpreting them into unique pieces.
Alejandro Peña Villarreal, head architect of the project, says: ‘One cup at a time, this multi-sensorial encounter with coffee takes each customer to the Central Highlands of Chiapas, Mexico, to discover their culture, traditions, and ways of living.’ www.concentrico.mx
