UNC Studio has designed Loose Kyoto in Kyoto, Japan.

This project is the first cafe plan for a client who is also a barista.

"We aimed for a design full of originality that can only be realised here," said UNC Studio. "The existing wooden house was reused and renovated as much as possible."

The materials were narrowed down to wood, aluminium and mortar, and the texture of the materials was utilised with as little modification as possible. Originally designed elements such as counters and tables make up the majority of the space.

In addition, by strategically arranging the long wooden bench to face the counter, the owner brewing coffee and the customer sitting on the bench can talk face-to-face. This takes advantage of the charm of the friendly shop owner who enjoys casual conversation with customers.

This project has been longlisted in the restaurant and bar interiors category of Dezeen Awards 2022.

Designer: UNC Studio

Project: Loose Kyoto