SkB architects combine cafe and showroom for la marzocco in seattle, washington

SkB architects have merged cafe and showroom for italian-based espresso machine manufacturer la marzocco. the store which is located in seattle, washington, draws upon the company’s florentine factory in florence, which the studio visited in search for visual references. vintage expresso machines and a series of drawings of traditional bars were found within their research which led the creative direction of the overall project.

the space brings together cafe and showroom

at the center of the showroom stands a 200-square-foot espresso bar which uses a U-shaped form, encouraging 360 degrees of interaction between barista and customer. the bar also includes a foot rail – a homage to those found in italian cafés where the tradition of enjoying one’s daily coffee standing up persists today. this area is framed by multi-toned glass panels that hang above, which make a direct reference to the beautifully-aged windows discovered at the old factory in florence. in addition to helping to define the store and create a sense of intimacy, this feature masks the track for the security curtain used to enclose the space during off-hours. 

the U-shaped form encourages 360 degrees of interaction

behind the bar is the espresso lab, a space dedicated to showcasing la marzocco home, the company’s residential line of espresso machines and accessories. the lab grants visitors with the opportunity to speak directly with baristas, gain hands-on experience with the manufacturer’s accessories, participate in home barista classes, as well as speak with staff about selecting the right machine.

the area is framed by multi-toned glass panels

kyle gaffney, founding partner, SkB architects states that they ‘worked with the team to create and design a unique retail environment that provides a place for customers to gather and connect through coffee. but also to create an immersive experience that provides an education for customers about la marzocco’s rich history, artisan craft, high quality and the significance of their machines within the coffee industry.’

the lab grants visitors with the opportunity to speak directly with baristas 

the company’s residential line of espresso machines and accessories are on display