Lab4 Architects is inspired by the classic New York cafes in the 1930s to design State Coffee Co.

Lab4 architects chose HI-MACS® for the latest espresso bar in the Greek coffee bar chain State Coffee Co., which has opened in Agria, a town on the Gulf of Pagasai in eastern Greece.

In both design and furniture selection, the new State Coffee Co. is inspired by the classic New York espresso bars of the 1930s, with elements reminiscent of the naval industrial style found in old cafés in the port of Manhattan during the early 20th century. These details combine harmoniously with ‘Mediterranean’ features, such as the hexagonal cement tiles and the characteristic Italian bar area. In homage to the different styles, images of the fascinating New York of that era and of Italian bartenders at work hang on the walls.

The espresso bar overlooks the sea, and its floorspace of 90 m² comprises three zones: an area where coffee is prepared, a serving area, and a semi-covered terrace with tables where customers can enjoy their coffee.

Clearly visible through the large storefront windows, the bar itself sits in the middle of the coffee shop and has a large rectangular counter featuring a durable top in HIMACS® with an Arctic Granite G034 finish. The latest generation acrylic stone has also been used for the area that houses the display cabinet and for the finishing around the column separating the counter from the entrance leading into the drinks preparation area.

The architects chose HI-MACS® Solid Surface for its excellent hygienic properties, its extreme ease of cleaning and its high resistance to stains, dirt and chemicals. In addition, it is remarkably resistant to scratches and to the type of daily wear commonly encountered in areas of intensive use and high customer throughput such as a café.

The white finish and granite texture of the HI-MACS® is enhanced by the warm hue and grain of the highly figured walnut used for the cabinets, compartments and shelves that make up the bar area. This contrast is further highlighted by the brilliant aquamarine finish used as the background for the company logo and the shelving recessed into the front face of the counter.

With its mixture of highly diverse yet complementary styles, the new State Coffee Co. offers a tantalising gateway into authentic coffee culture and distant eras.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Location: Agria, Greece
Project: State Coffee Co. Espresso Bar
Design: Lab4 architects
Material: HI-MACS® Arctic Granite G034
Photos: Kostas Kroustallis

Source: HI-MACS®
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