LIGHT UP COFFEE Mitaka

Design Team：Spicy Architects
Size：115.19 m²   
Location：Mitaka, Japan

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Feature：

Project - LIGHT UP COFFEE Mitaka by Spicy Architects is a captivating renovation that transforms a former auto repair shop into a vibrant cafe and roastery. The Tokyo-based architects have adeptly repurposed the two-story building, dedicating the ground floor to an open roasting space seamlessly merged with the cafe area. A key highlight is the integration of a vintage 1960s Probat UG22 roasting machine, which sparked the idea for the project when acquired by the cafe's owner. Spicy Architects embraced the machine's romantic backstory, designing the interior to proudly showcase the roasting process. By omitting partitions between the roasting zone and cafe, visitors can witness the journey from green bean to freshly roasted coffee. The building's existing street-facing shutters have been ingeniously utilized, opening fully to dissolve the boundary between interior and exterior. This "street lounge" concept creates a liberated atmosphere where passersby on bicycles or walking dogs feel intimately connected to the cafe's vibrant setting. Material choices further enhance the artisanal ambiance, with solid cedar wood featuring pronounced knots evoking a handcrafted sensibility. Carefully assembled on-site, the detailing echoes the meticulous roasting process celebrated within this unique cafe experience.

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Design Team - Founded in 2020 by Ryo Yamamoto, Spicy Architects is a Tokyo-based architectural practice gaining recognition for its inventive adaptive reuse projects. Led by Yamamoto, who studied at Tokyo University of Science and Lisbon's Instituto Superior Técnico, the firm approaches each commission with a keen eye for uncovering latent potentials within existing structures. Their recent LIGHT UP COFFEE Mitaka exemplifies their design acumen, transforming a former auto repair shop into a captivating cafe and roastery. By deftly integrating elements like a vintage roasting machine, they craft immersive spaces that celebrate craftsmanship and material honesty. Spicy Architects' portfolio showcases a dexterity in programs ranging from commercial interiors to bespoke furniture pieces. Their work deftly balances contextual sensitivity with bold conceptual visions. With an ability to distill unique narratives, the firm brings a fresh perspective to adaptive reuse that resonates with discerning clients seeking authentic design experiences. As a rising creative force, Spicy Architects demonstrates an adept understanding of sculpting atmospheric spaces that foster meaningful connections between people and their surroundings.