Arabica Riyadh Roastery: A Theatre-Inspired Coffee Experience

Jun Watanabe reimagines the cafe as a sensory stage for coffee lovers

Arabica Riyadh Roastery, designed by Jun Watanabe, stands as a striking example of how architectural innovation can elevate everyday experiences. Located in a renovated 900-square-meter warehouse in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the cafe draws inspiration from the world of theatre. At its heart lies a custom-built, giant roasting machine, positioned on a stage and surrounded by ARABICA’s signature bean cellar. This central feature not only serves as a functional element but also as a visual anchor, inviting guests to witness the artistry of coffee roasting up close.

The spatial arrangement mirrors that of a theatre, with a lowered floor in front of the stage and tiered seating that ensures clear sightlines from nearly every seat. The design offers a variety of atmospheres, from intimate, low-ceilinged nooks to an expansive atrium where the sounds of baristas resonate. The entrance staircase is carefully positioned to provide a glimpse of the stage from outside, creating anticipation and drawing visitors into the experience. This thoughtful layout allows guests to engage with the coffee-making process through all five senses.

Material choices further enhance the cafe’s unique identity. The space is unified in ARABICA’s signature white, yet depth is achieved through contrasting textures—artificial marble, brick, perforated metal, and smooth painted surfaces. The seamless, epoxy resin-coated floor maintains a pristine appearance, while indirect lighting filters through perforated metal in the atrium, mimicking natural top light and adding drama to the interior.

Arabica Riyadh Roastery’s design is deeply informed by local research. The team visited numerous Saudi cafes and interviewed franchise owners to better understand cultural preferences. As a result, the cafe features sheer curtains for privacy, furniture designed for comfort in traditional attire, and mirrors for personal grooming. These details reflect a commitment to both hospitality and cultural sensitivity, ensuring the space feels welcoming to all guests.

Seating options cater to diverse preferences: benches for those who wish to observe the barista’s craft, box seats for an up-close view of the kitchen and stage, and elevated counter seats for a panoramic perspective. The careful calibration of viewpoints and the strategic use of height differences—such as the entrance staircase and the sunken kitchen area—required meticulous planning and visualization, underscoring the project’s technical sophistication.

Recognized with the Platinum A' Design Award in 2025, Arabica Riyadh Roastery exemplifies how design can transcend function to create memorable, culturally attuned experiences. The project not only advances the boundaries of interior architecture but also sets a new standard for cafes worldwide, where every visit becomes a performance to savor.

Arabica Riyadh Roastery invites visitors to step into a world where coffee is not just served, but celebrated—a testament to the power of thoughtful design in shaping lifestyle destinations.