Nestled on the top floor of Berlin’s iconic KaDeWe, the café designed by Ester Bruzkus Architekten is a captivating blend of materials, textures, colors, and forms. Completed in 2022, this project transcends conventional design boundaries, offering visitors a sensory experience that oscillates between contrasts of smooth and textured, refined and raw, natural and synthetic.
Concept and Design
Led by architects Ester Bruzkus and Peter Greenberg, the KaDeWe Café embodies the concept of a “delicious trifle” that harmonizes opposing elements. The design narrative revolves around juxtaposing cool stainless steel, mirrored metals, and glossy powder coats in vibrant hues of orange and lavender with warm, natural terra cotta tiles. This interplay of materials creates a visual and tactile feast for patrons, inviting them to explore the nuances of contemporary design.
Material Palette
The café features two distinct types of terra cotta tiles sourced from Fornace Brioni, each contributing to the overall aesthetic. Marbled tiles adorn the walls, adding depth and character to the space, while fluted tiles embellish the counter, exuding a sense of craftsmanship and authenticity. Unlike the precise machine-made aesthetics of metals, the terra cotta tiles showcase the artistry of hand-crafted techniques, resulting in a unique marbled surface that celebrates the imperfections of artisanal production.
Fusion of Themes
Ester Bruzkus Architekten’s design philosophy revolves around reconciling opposing themes to create a harmonious and engaging environment. By integrating natural and artificial elements, vibrant and muted colors, and hand-crafted and machined textures, the café becomes a vibrant and dynamic destination within the KaDeWe shopping experience. The intentional juxtaposition of contrasting elements reflects the evolving landscape of contemporary design, where tradition seamlessly merges with innovation.
Experience and Atmosphere
The KaDeWe Café Berlin offers more than just a cup of coffee; it provides patrons with a multisensory journey through its thoughtfully curated space. As visitors indulge in the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee, they are enveloped in an atmosphere that oscillates between familiarity and novelty, comfort and excitement. The café serves as a vibrant oasis amidst the bustling retail environment, inviting shoppers to pause and savor a moment of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life.
In essence, the KaDeWe Café Berlin by Ester Bruzkus Architekten transcends traditional notions of café design, offering a compelling fusion of contrasts that redefine the contemporary coffee shop experience. Through its innovative use of materials, textures, and colors, the café embodies a harmonious synthesis of opposites, creating a visually stunning and immersive space within Berlin’s renowned retail destination.
