The projects’ feature is based on the reflectivity of the materials.

Terminal01 have designed a café based on experiencing the existing river reflections and surroundings. The design is therefore kept simple but the materials catch the river reflections and bring them right into the café space, enhancing them, for the enjoyment of the visitor.

Osaka, a city once filled with various rivers and canals crisscrossing the city, was known as the “capital of water”. This café is situated on the second floor of Dojima River Forum, located alongside a major river running through the city of Osaka. The building with its full glazing façade provides a panoramic view of the river.

For this project, what Terminal01 have designed is an “Experience” and not just a form.

Glossy vinyl sheet was used for the ceiling aiming to bring the outside in for a continuation of scenes through its reflectivity. Because the cafe is located on the upper floor of the building, the pedestrians on the ground level can catch the glossy café ceiling reflecting the surroundings and scenes inside. This reflection with distorted reflected imagery resembles that of the river.

Because the projects’ feature is based on the reflectivity of the materials, a strong design language was kept to a minimum. As such, the design for the bar counters and kitchen was toned down, only featuring its functional form.

In such a translucent space, a large wooden structure and a staircase that connects the floors was an important feature of this project. By featuring a large volume structure in a building façade in glass, its existence enhances a symbolic “entry” for the pedestrians into the building to the café space above.

For this café, we have also taken on the role of a producer and have designed not just the interior, but the store concept, food menu, and signage.

ARCHITECT: Terminal01, Osaka, Japan. LOCATION: Osaka, Japan. PROJECT ARCHITECTS: Kei Haraguchi + Keigo Miki. CONTRUCTOR: NOMURA Co.Ltd. AREA: 242.04 sqm. DATE: 2011. No part of this web site may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of Morfae and the copyright owner.