Katinat Cafe
Module K transformed a corner building in HCMC from a kindergarten space to the Katinat Cafe, with curves and coffee-coloured fittings to soften and smooth the environment.
Module K found the DNA for the Katinat Cafe project: a rough shell embracing a warm soul.
The site, at the corner of an intersection, was once a kindergarten with a swimming pool inside. The clients wanted to keep the existing structure but remove glossy coats of paint and give the space a robust atmosphere. Katinat, a chain of more than 50 cafes in Vietnam, is named after a prominent old street (named Rue Catinat before 1975), the site of famous colonial buildings.
The new interior design sees terrazzo floors and rough concrete columns. Double height windows bring in light and connect the interior to outside. Walls of glass bricks patterned with the shapes of the Katinat brand are softly backlit on the outside, and inside create delicate patterns on horizontal surfaces.
A sculptural circular concrete staircase with illuminated steel steps connects the ground floor with a curved mezzanine level.
At the centre is a stainless steel organically-shaped coffee bar, framed at different levels with bronze strips.
Patrons sit on curved cocoa-coloured banquettes or at cinnamon-coloured seats with small circular tables of pale terrazzo. Bannisters topped with bolster cushions to lean against create a relaxed vibe and delineate spaces. Outside seating features Parisian-style tables and chairs.
Interior elements add some froth to the space – ovoid brand-shaped mirrors are framed with bronze, whilst large-faced clocks, reminiscent of old French clocks, sit atop bar tables. Lighting includes cream-coloured wall lamps set within vertical wall elements, double-arm table lamps and suspended ceiling lights.
The colour range blends from pale latte to warm mocha to dark espresso, from cool to warm. Shots of bronze punctuate the monochrome scheme, bringing a contemporary twist. A blend of textures and patterns.
The design and construction was completed in 65 days in the post lockdown period in Vietnam.
Design: Module K
Design Team: Phuong Dung, Thuy Trang, Nghiep Thong, Diep Binh Quyen, Phu Binh, Hanh Nguyen, Kim Anh, Ngoc Han, Khanh Di, Dai Nghia, Quang Minh
Photography: Do Sy
