Revitalizing old buildings To the garden cafe: Chana's Cafe

“Transmission of architecture and memory The building has been renovated to be consistent with its current use. It is considered to be respect for the values of the past.

Chana's Cafe is a renovation project of a two-story old building that used to be a house but has not been used for a long time. The ground floor used to be a living area and the upper floor is a rooftop. The building is located at the entrance and the orchard. The project owner wants to revive this building to come back to life by transforming it into a coffee shop that combines the harmony of a new way of life and old memories.

The design approach focuses on “conservation and adaptation” to maintain the original building and add new functions to meet usage needs. The original structure is kept as much as possible, along with adding new materials that are compatible with the original architecture. The functions are changed without destroying the feeling of the original area. The ground floor is changed to the main zone of the coffee shop, designed to be open and airy, receiving natural light and wind from the orchard. The service area and bathroom remain in the same position, and the beverage preparation area is arranged in a relative position for efficient use.

The second floor is designed to be an open-air relaxation zone, providing a new experience for visitors by connecting the view to the orchard below. This area is also designed to support the use of the shop owner. With private rooms that can be used as work or relaxation areas.

The design approach on the second floor focuses on creating a comfortable environment by using materials that reduce heat, such as double-walled walls, or designing openings that allow good ventilation, including the use of wooden lattices and roof eaves on the side to help filter sunlight in the afternoon.

Chana's Cafe connects the past, present and future.

The design and use of space help preserve family memories and allow customers to experience the warmth of the original architecture that has been revived. This design combines “respecting the past, adapting to the present and preparing for the future.”

Project Name: Chana's Cafe 

Architecture Firm: scaleup architects

Website: www.scaleuparchitects.com

Completion Year (if applies): 2024

Gross Built Area: 240 m²

Project location: Rayong Thailand 
Lead Architects: montree jaroenrungrit

Clients: Nuttayot Surakantkul