a system of repetitive arch frames defines ASWA's loft-style café in bangkok

ASWA redefines building’s identity using the arch element

ASWA (Architectural Studio of Work – Aholic) transforms a former rental building into a loft-style café space in an eastern suburb of Bangkok, Thailand. Spanning approximately 300 sqm and accommodating around 70 seats, the one-and-a-half-story Bitter Kiss Café required a rejuvenated aesthetic. The studio envisioned infusing the existing structure with welcoming elements. The concept centers on creating an inviting space, beginning with an arch and an inverted arch, which together form an abstract picture frame at the exterior entrance and extend into the interior space.

all images ©ASWA

bitter kiss café features new elements in its welcoming interior

Repetitive white arch frames were strategically placed at the front of the building to attract passersby from the street to the Bitter Kiss Café. Crafted by ASWA, these arch elements provide views of the lush green surroundings, evolving with the changing interplay of light and shadow throughout the day. Inside, plywood arch partitions delineate distinctive architectural shapes, forming semi-private areas. Leveraging the building’s existing structural grid, the architects integrated the new elements, effectively concealing the central concrete column and ensuring a welcoming environment for every visitor. 

the owners wanted to redefine the building’s identity

the loft-style café is housed in a former rental building

spanning approximately 300 sqm and accommodating around 70 seats, the café acquired a rejuvenated aesthetic

the interior features plywood arch partitions

the concept centers on creating an inviting space, beginning with an arch and an inverted arch

the new elements conceal the central concrete column

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the arch element extends from the entrance into the interior

the studio envisioned infusing the existing structure with fresh elements

the archs form an abstract picture frame

project info:

name: Bitter Kiss Cafe
architect: ASWA (Architectural Studio of Work – Aholic) | @aswa_bangkok
interior design: ASWA (Architectural Studio of Work – Aholic)
location: Bangkok, Thailand 
area: 300 sqm 

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edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom