Orijins, Dubai

USING…

soft minimalism and a sensory approach to interiors, Dubai practice VSHD Design has created a relaxing social space in the form of this unique coffee shop, situated at ground level inside the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC).

THE DESIGNERS…

have introduced strong geometric angles, strict lines, sweeping curves and monolithic blocks to anchor the interior, allowing a certain sculptural gravitas to take hold. The effect is at once open and protected, as if you are entering a hidden sanctuary or secret chapel.

A CENTRAL…

work station is a sculptural island in its own right, comprised of seven marble boulders separating the staff from the customers, but only just, for there is a gentleness to the space that evokes both the ancient landscape and the modern world.

HANDCRAFTED…

wooden furniture is simple and functional, specifically chosen so as not to interrupt the flow of the architecture which is dominated by a smooth plastered wall that rises and curves like a wave. Forms such as these bring into focus the vision that VSHD Design sought to reflect throughout the interior – namely a connection to rich natural materials that encourage the flow of light and air through the shop, ensuring cool temperatures even in the scorching summer heat.

THE MARBLE…

blocks are a labor of love – each one hewn from a different stone, sketched by hand, made into a 3D model and then processed through a CNC machine to achieve the final result. The remaining rough and craggy texture of each plinth recalls the forces of weathering and erosion, so that the cafe feels like a living, breathing space rather than a mere minimalist construction.

IN THE…

seating and lounge areas, bespoke aluminum lighting, a Dadaist trapezoid lamp, and spare furnishings make a statement while soft natural textures and textiles round out the effect, bringing a dose of comfort and warmth to this ancient-meets-modern cafe in the glittering city of Dubai.