The intervention by MCH Estudio is conceived as a journey through the process from coffee making to tasting. The chairs and tables are oriented towards the roastery and the baristas' workspace so that visitors can enjoy the process of making their drink as if it were a spectacle.
Through the restoration of the wood and stone elements and the incorporation of handcrafted furniture with details in wood, metal and textiles, a dialogue between past and present is generated. Thanks to the variety of ages of the materials, the building acquires a new meaning without overshadowing its former identity.
Espacio cafetero by MCH Estudio. Photograph by César Belio.
Project description by MCH Estudio
Located in a heritage building from the early 20th century, this project serves as a bridge between past and present—an exceptional fusion of history and modernity. The restoration of the building, recognized as a historical landmark, was carried out with a focus on preserving its original architectural elements, rescuing details that tell stories of bygone eras and allowing its essence to remain alive.
In the heart of the city, this space has been transformed into a place where coffee is not only tasted but also experienced and lived. More than just a café, it is a tribute to tradition and contemporary culture, a meeting point where the aroma of freshly roasted beans blends with the rich history of the building and the warmth of its design. Conceived to breathe new life into the urban center and challenge the growing disconnect with these spaces, the studio designed a renovation that reinterprets the past without losing its authenticity, offering an atmosphere of introspection, connection, and discovery.
The journey begins at the soul of the project: a coffee roaster that, beyond being a key element in production, stands as a symbol of the artisanal process that defines the character of the space. Adjacent to it, the experimentation lab serves as an alchemical stage where baristas and experts refine recipes and explore new ways to extract the essence of coffee. Finally, the experience culminates in the tasting area, a warm and immersive environment where visitors can savor the result of this meticulous process. These spaces intertwine seamlessly, allowing guests not only to enjoy a beverage but also to witness the journey each bean takes—from roasting to cup.
Rather than imposing itself on its history, the design embraces the past, carefully restoring original elements such as wooden paneling and stone-carved frames. These details, combined with handcrafted contemporary furniture and materials like wood, metal, and textiles, create a harmonious dialogue between old and new. This intervention is not just about renovating a building but about redefining its meaning, integrating modern elements without losing its identity.
Beyond its aesthetic value, this transformation is a commitment to the revitalization of the urban core, encouraging the community to reclaim the space and fostering a stronger sense of connection. At a time when cities have prioritized mobility over livability, this project demonstrates that design can be a powerful tool to reconnect people with their surroundings. Here, among the aroma of freshly roasted coffee and the warmth of a thoughtfully restored space, visitors find a refuge where time slows down and history can be savored in every sip.
