The House, a 285-square meter coffee studio in Sharjah designed by Inter-disciplinary design firm C’est Ici is “an antidote to our fast-paced, on-the-go culture.”A dream project of Emirati barista, Mansoor Al Omani, The House is the only café of its kind in the Emirate dedicated to the art ofcoffee making.
The House is a surprising cohesion of contrasting styles where brutalist mixes freely with organic elements and the classic with rustic. A full-service turnkey project from design to execution, the Cèst Ici signature style is evident in every detail of the project.
THE CONCEPT
Approached with a brief to create a café with an ambience “as warm, grounded, earthy and balanced as the perfect cup of coffee”, C’est Ici responded with an efficient open plan and chic interior design style brimming with character. Employing a minimalistic approach, the design house fashioned a youthful, upscale studio that speaks warmly of the client’s deep knowledge and passion for coffee. Everything from the spatial layout to the colour and texture palette, curation of furniture, accessories, lighting and finishes all come together to create a tranquil space where guests can immerse in the storytelling anddiscover the journey of coffee from bean to brew.
THE EXPERIENCE
Conceptualizing a highly specific mood and experience for each of the space was key to the initial design process. By understanding the clients’ vision and brief, we were inspired by the characteristic design language and layout for each area’s
function and users. While some spaces were designed to emanate a moody atmosphere with deep accents and heavy textures, the other spaces exuded a calming, light and airy feel that went hand in hand with the use of the space. Achieving a balance, harmony and flow between all the connected areas involved a key underlying principle- an uncluttered yet practical layout for a comfortable living that evokes a sense of togetherness.
