AZAZ architects adds massive overreaching arches to coffee shop in saudi arabia

coffee roasters elixir bunn has opened their new location designed by AZAZ architects in riyadh, saudi arabia. the brand, which has already built a strong reputation for their coffee, wanted to complement the drinking experience with an atmosphere that goes hand in hand with their product.

all images courtesy of azaz architects, by arch. rakan alzughaibi

coffee in saudi arabia is well-rooted into the local culture, tracing it back to times prior to the formation of the kingdom. since then, the country’s coffee region has evolved, and we could say that today it is flourishing. to match that development, AZAZ architects envisioned the space as a deco temple, aiming to create a modern day spiritual-like experiences for the coffee drinkers. the structural column in the center of the space created a challenge for the designers. however, the team embraced it and transformed it into the centerpiece of its design. new walls were created from the column, shaped into massive overreaching arches.

the shape of the historic islamic arches combined with the mud finishing contributed to the feel of local sanctity. after all, the coffee shop is a saudi brand and the space certainly reflects that. nonetheless, the shop has a modern edge to it thanks to metropolitan touches such as the use of sustainable italian terrazzo for the floor and the deep blue spiral staircase. the new elixir bunn shop, designed by AZAZ architects, has become a landmark among the fast growing coffee shop industry in saudi arabia.

project info:

name: deco temple, elixir bunn coffee roasters
type: coffee shop, store
architects: AZAZ architects
location: riyadh, saudi arabia
area: 221.0 m²
year: 2019
manufacturers: daikin, jotun, linea, ex. t
architect in charge: shahad alazzaz
design team: azaz architects
clients: elixir bunn coffee roasters