Enchanting Play Cafe Design Wins Silver at A' Design Awards

Piccola: A Carnival City-Themed Play Cafe by Pinar Gorpeoglu

Designer Pinar Gorpeoglu has crafted an immersive environment that captivates both adults and children alike. The play cafe, Piccola, is a testament to the power of design in creating memorable experiences. Drawing inspiration from the vibrancy of carnivals and the rhythm of cityscapes, Gorpeoglu's design features a carousel-shaped ceiling light and wall panels that mimic city silhouettes, infusing the space with a sense of wonder and excitement.

The unique properties of Piccola lie in its ability to blend storytelling with architecture, offering visitors a journey through a mythical world. The design's strength is its varied intensity in different zones, catering to the playful hearts of children and providing a serene space for parents. This innovative approach to spatial use distinguishes Piccola in terms of creativity, functionality, and experience.

Realization of this fairy-tale realm was achieved through advanced technology. The façade, a digital model produced in layers, serves as a three-dimensional portal to the play cafe. With integrated motors, elements like golden stars and striped wheels come to life, rotating in harmony with enchanting music from a built-in stereo system, setting the stage for an extraordinary adventure.

The 700 square meter project area is a testament to the technical prowess behind Piccola. The design is not just visually stunning but also interactive. An inverted carousel centerpiece in the cafe area leads visitors to a play area with a spiral staircase and interactive game walls, while mirror panels offer a creative backdrop for adult visitors' photographs.

Addressing the challenge of low ceilings in the basement floor, the design strategically employs mirrors to transform the space, creating an illusion of height and spaciousness. This clever use of reflections enhances the ambiance, ensuring that the narrative of a carnival city is felt throughout the cafe.

Piccola stands as a beacon of design excellence, where every detail from the carousel lights to the skyline-inspired panels contributes to the thematic atmosphere. The play cafe is a perfect blend of practicality and creativity, offering a space where families can immerse themselves in a fairy-tale experience.

With photography by Cansu Ayduran and a video by Berkay Gulüm capturing the essence of Piccola, the play cafe not only serves as a functional space but also as a work of art. Its recognition with a Silver A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Category in 2024 is a testament to its innovative design and the magical experience it provides.