Bourbon
Concept Coffee Shop
Athens, Greece 2019
Architecture
ADD Architecture Studio
Interior & Light Design
ADD Architecture Studio
ADD Architecture Studio Design Team
Dionysis Koutsioumaris, Argyris Chronopoulos
Photography
ADD Architecture Studio
The design of the space was influenced by its limited square meters, square ratio, and high ceiling. The core design approach divided the space into two acute triangles: one guiding visitor flow with an internal arcade of steel beams acting as lighting lines, and the other separating the workspace from the public area through an interior facade-bench-shelf structure. These elements intensify perspective, creating an illusion of a larger space. Materials include white-painted steel, birch plywood, gray plaster, and artificial lighting, which serves as a key element to emphasize structure and enhance spatial perception.
Visitors enter through one of two facade openings, with the left opening designed to seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor spaces. Movement is guided by an angled counter and the arcade geometry, drawing visitors deeper into the space. The internal “façade” divides the store into three vertical zones: overhead storage, a service gap, and the workbench. This tripartite structure emphasizes verticality while providing light, display space, and potential for future advertising.
The counter and brewery space are within the second triangle, separated by a bronze-glazed glass partition that adds theatricality by semi-revealing the brewery space. The interplay of light and shadow through the glass elevates the design. The roof structure, resembling a herringbone, features steel mullions with integrated LED tapes and spotlights, creating an arcade-like enclosure. A perforated steel-sheet ceiling in the workstation area houses the store’s infrastructure, blending form and function.
The store’s facade acts as a viewing frame for the interior, with the right-side opening designed as a subtler communication point with passers-by. Lighting enhances perspective and blends harmoniously with materials like plywood and bronze-glazed glass, creating a vibrant yet discreet atmosphere through reflections, refractions, and subtle color shifts.
