Kokomo is a cafe with a plant-based menu located in Vancouver’s historic Chinatown neighbourhood. The intention of the project was to create a simple and accessible space using natural materials and a modest colour palette that encourages conversation and communal dining.
The main feature of the space is a single white concrete communal table. The curved shape of the table encourages socializing and conversations between friends and strangers while the large central planter makes it comfortable for solo diners. The planter is clad in dark wood half-rounds and the curved shape of the table is mirrored by the curve of the service counters. Behind the service counter, the kitchen is visible through a large circular pass. This circular pass mirrors the windows of the adjacent heritage buildings and can be seen from the street. Many original characteristics of the space were left, such as the open facade and stoop as well as the storage mezzanine which is accessed by staff with the help of a ladder. Custom stools and lighting complete the room.
What was the brief?
The project brief was to create a space that would encourage conversation and socializing amongst guest.
What were the key challenges?
Create a space that reflected the clients ambition while also being sensitive to the character of the neighbourhood.
What were the solutions?
A key feature of the neighbourhood is the open facades. By adding the folding glass doors the cafe is acclimatized the winter and can be left open in the warmer months without loosing this integral element.
