The design brief for theAkinwas relatively open. It was to serve as a quick grab and go lunch andcoffee spot for the surrounding office users, a welcoming place for a coffee for central cityshoppers, as well as a destination in the weekends for a leisurely brunch. The layout of theinterior was for a central counter to provide oversight of all customers, including multiple entrypoints, and provide a variety of seating options. The look and feel was to be warm, welcomingand in contrast to the known industrial chic interiorsof thecommercial office building.

The design response was for an offset central counter, kinking past the existing cast iron columncentral within the space. This location provided a clear circulation path form main entry (andfrom multiple other entry points)to slide past food display to point of sale. The offset providing agenerous barista station, alongside pass through from kitchen for menu food items. A large rearbench and store provide ample service space for the staff.

The success of the café is evident in the consistently full tables throughout all times of the day.The calming environment provides a necessary escape from the hectic office environment, or thebustling shopping activities, and has worked almost to the cafes detriment with customersstaying put long after their coffees are done!