Gluck Cafe: A Harmonious Blend of Nature and Design

Creating a Commercial Space that Celebrates Local Farmers and Artistry

Gluck Cafe, designed by Hsin Chen of Komet Design, is a remarkable commercial space that seamlessly integrates catering, interior design, aesthetics, and the products of local farmers. Situated beside Riverbank Park, the design draws inspiration from the surrounding views, aiming to create a complex space that brings people closer to nature.

The concept behind Gluck Cafe revolves around the circle of life, symbolized by the loop-shaped circulation within the 65m2 space. The design represents the idea that what grows from the ground should eventually return to it. The word "Gluck," derived from German, means "good luck" and conveys a sense of happiness and fortune. The design extends the smiley face "U" with a big and small circle, symbolizing continuous circulation.

The linear structure of Gluck Cafe takes the form of a loop, with a larger square on the outside serving as the display stands and bar seating area. The inner square shape houses the Nakajima working area, which includes a simple kitchen setup and a checkout counter. The display stands feature hidden lights on tracks, allowing for flexible space for exhibits.

Gluck Cafe's realization is a testament to the designer's commitment to creating a space that feels close to people. The facade incorporates large glass windows, seamlessly integrating the natural views into the design. The interior utilizes natural materials such as marble, cement, wood, and steel. The flooring is intentionally varied, with the front side featuring cement powder to evoke a sense of nature and the land of farmers, while the back side uses wooden flooring to emphasize the interaction between humans and nature.

The color palette of Gluck Cafe revolves around shades of grey-blue, reminiscent of the natural colors of the river and sky, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The golden sunlight that filters through the windows reflects off the interior steel display stands, further enhancing the visual appeal. The ceiling is painted white and adorned with a stunning chandelier called "Birdie," designed by LUDOVICA+ROBERTO PALOMBA. The chandelier, inspired by branches and birds, perfectly complements the core concept of coexistence with nature.

Gluck Cafe is not just a commercial space; it is a compound business area that aims to provide a relaxing environment for visitors. It seamlessly integrates culture, a cafe, souvenir shops, and more. The loop-shaped structure of the space creates a unique expression, with the Nakajima working area constructed using marble to evoke a sense of tranquility. The blue facade sheet mimics the waves of the river, adding to the distinctive ambiance. The cement structure staircase has been replaced with steel, embedded into the wall, and a row of golden round rods extends to the second floor, maintaining visual balance.

The Gluck Cafe project was completed in December 2017 in Taoyuan City, Taiwan. It required meticulous attention to detail, as the 30-year-old space presented various challenges such as leaking water and exposed pipelines. The designer, Hsin Chen, put in significant effort to solve these issues and reinforce the structure. Additionally, the small washroom and an abnormal corner near the staircase were creatively addressed by moving the sink to the corner to maximize space. The sink was adorned with a metal frame mirror for visual unity. The introduction of new plants and artworks helped reduce direct sunlight, creating a more comfortable environment.

Gluck Cafe is a testament to the power of design to create meaningful spaces that inspire creativity, promote healthy living, and foster a deeper connection between humans and their environment. By seamlessly blending elements of nature, artistry, and interior design, Gluck Cafe invites visitors to experience a harmonious coexistence with the natural world.

Photographer: Beck Chen, 2018

Awards and Accolades: Gluck Cafe was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2020. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit outstanding creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skills, contributing to improvements in quality of life and making the world a better place.