Sweet Life: A Coffee Bar Oasis in the Heart of a Shopping Center

A Restful Retreat Amidst the Bustle

The concept behind Sweet Life was to create a space that contrasts with the mall's technical architectural style, offering a sense of calm and comfort. The focus was on using natural materials that reflect the organic and fair products served at the cafe. The interior features breathing clay plaster, marble, and oak, which contribute to the overall sense of naturalness and warmth.

The design of Sweet Life is characterized by its unique properties and strengths. With its prominent location in the second largest shopping center in Switzerland, the cafe is a popular destination for shoppers seeking a moment of respite. The use of natural materials and the attention to detail in the design create an empathic and inviting atmosphere, making customers feel welcome and at ease.

The realization of the design involved the use of various techniques and materials. The walls were textured with mud plaster, while the oak parquet flooring was laid in a fishbone pattern. The suspended ceiling, made of oak, carrara marble, and brass, adds a touch of elegance to the space. All these materials were carefully chosen and harmoniously matched to create a cohesive and visually appealing design.

Sweet Life spans 130 square meters, with a work area of 25 square meters and a guest lounge of 95 square meters. Additionally, a coffee area of around 50 square meters has been set up in the public area of the mall. The size of the cafe was determined by the strict safety and fire protection regulations of the mall, which influenced the choice of materials and the overall design.

The design of Sweet Life presented several challenges that were successfully overcome. The cafe's concept required the inclusion of haptically warm materials such as felt, fabric, and wood. The layout was carefully planned to create a clear separation between the comfortable lounge area for customers and the professional work area for employees. To establish a connection between the two spaces, a wall combination was placed behind the counter, which was repeated in the guest room. This design choice emphasized the importance of privacy and comfort for both customers and employees.

Florian Studer's Sweet Life design has received recognition for its outstanding creativity and ingenuity. In 2018, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate excellence in incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. Sweet Life's design not only enhances the quality of life for its visitors but also contributes to making the world a better place through its thoughtful and innovative approach.

Image Credits: Armin Grässl 2018