Architecture and interior design: IDIN Architects
Ceilings: Barrisol
Photo credits: DOF Sky | Ground
Their name’s acronym immediately conveys their orientation; IDIN – Integrating Design Into Nature. They were the natural choice to design the new Harudot café in the seaside town of Chonburi, Thailand. The initiative came out of a partnership between the owner of the Nana Coffee Roasters and the landlord, who has a love for plants with unusual shapes.
The architects started from the meaning of the name – a combination of the Japanese word “Haru” (spring) and the English word “dot” – which recalls the concept of new beginnings and growth. This was the starting point for placing trees in the center of three black buildings in the shape of thin black gables. A majestic baobab tree stands in the inner courtyard where the roof opens to the sky to let it grow, giving the impression that its seed had been planted long ago and is growing through the architecture.
The empty spaces created by the plants’ upward movement create curves – undulated pitches on the roof – that give the entire structure a dynamic sense of movement. They are open in the semi-outdoor courtyard and let the rain and sunlight in, enhancing the connection with nature. The interiors are closed by taut ceilings made of Barrisol – PVC fireproof sheets – that spread the natural light to help create inviting, subtly lit spaces.
The warm natural pine wood walls of the interiors contrast with the black exterior of the sloping roofs. They welcome guests into a space thoughtfully divided into several areas, including a bar, coffee drinking area, lounge, meeting rooms, and bathrooms, creating a sense of intimacy. The coffee brand’s identity is powerfully inspired by Japanese culture, whose attention to detail is given a simple, practical interpretation.
A row of chairs is arranged to wrap around the interiors, creating a ribbon-like continuity, and the height of the counters changes to suit various functions and uses. The outdoor seating is made of resin mixed with coffee grounds, rice, and leaves. The terrazzo flooring has a pattern that evokes the petals of flowers as if they had actually fallen from the trees.
