Cafe Modi: A Blend of Art and Retail

Combining Coffee and Art in a Unique Retail Store

Cafe Modi is not your ordinary retail store. It is a space that seamlessly blends the versatility of coffee and art sales, creating a unique and captivating experience for visitors. Designed by Yang Yuewen, this retail store is also a companion to the chi k11 art space, allowing for a harmonious integration of art and commerce.

What sets Cafe Modi apart is its ability to adapt to the adjacent art space. The product display within the store can be tailored to the theme of the exhibition, providing a flexible and dynamic retail experience. This synergy between art and retail creates a space where art activities can also take place, further enriching the overall experience for visitors.

The design of Cafe Modi is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and the use of high-quality materials. Brushed bronze, terrazzo, texture paint, mirrored stainless steel, and marble are the main materials used, creating a sophisticated and elegant ambiance. The combination of these materials not only enhances the visual appeal of the space but also adds a touch of luxury.

One of the key design considerations for Cafe Modi was the interaction between the space and its visitors. By strategically positioning furniture and creating a roundabout moving relationship on the floor plan, the designer encourages visitors to freely explore and interact with the space. This design approach not only facilitates easy shopping but also fosters a sense of engagement and connection.

Cafe Modi is located in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, and was completed in April 2018. The design process presented its fair share of challenges, including the irregular shape of the land and the need to accommodate multiple functions within the space. However, these obstacles were overcome with a sleek minimalist design that seamlessly integrates form and function.

With Cafe Modi, Yang Yuewen has successfully created a space that strikes a balance between function and form. The design pays homage to the classical while embracing the contemporary, resulting in an open, comfortable, and visually stunning retail environment.

This exceptional design has been recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2019. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving the quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.