In the heart of Pantin near Paris, a 1935 edifice has been transformed into a specialty coffee shop and roastery by the visionary architectural design firm Office Abrami Rojas (OAR). Renowned for their passion for existing structures with rich narratives, the architects embarked on a journey to create an interior design that pays homage to the building’s storied past.
Reviving Heritage
The restoration process unveiled the building’s hidden treasures, including magnificent reinforced concrete and glass domes concealed beneath insulating panels. OAR seized this opportunity to celebrate the original architectural features, breathing new life into the space. A meticulous dialogue with the client and craftsmen resulted in bespoke steel furniture and terracotta cladding, crafting a minimalist ambiance where the passage of time adorns the walls in hues of beige.
Harmonious Fusion
The interplay between the existing elements and contemporary interventions defines the essence of ANBASSA Coffee Shop. Natural light streams through the Art Deco-inspired domes, casting geometric patterns across the double-height spaces. The laboratory, delineated by expansive glass surfaces, seamlessly integrates the tasting area with the offices, creating a cohesive environment conducive to coffee roasting, sales, and sampling.
Architectural Continuity
The architectural narrative unfolds through a succession of Euclidean shapes – ellipse, square, and circle – echoing the geometric motifs of the domes. This spatial choreography emphasizes the interconnectedness of the building’s functions while paying homage to its historical context.
Soulful Design
Transparency, natural light, and reverence for the existing fabric of the building define the soul of this project. OAR, founded by Filippo Abrami and Helena Haas-Rojas, embodies a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. With a focus on sustainability and contextual design, OAR transcends disciplinary boundaries to create spaces that resonate with authenticity and vitality.
Levi Perry
Sakura Ito
