A sculptural café in Thailand

In the seaside town of Chonburi, Thailand, the Harudot café, imagined by IDIN Architects, presents itself as a vast sculptural form defined by two blackened wooden gabled roofs, rounded openings and glimpses of nature. The result of a collaboration between Nana Coffee Roasters and an owner with a passion for unique exotic plants, the space is named after the Japanese words “Haru” (Spring) referring to new beginnings and growth, and “Dot” symbolizing a starting point.

Located in the seaside town of Chonburi, Thailand, and christened Harudot, this unique-looking café, designed by local studio IDIN Architects, is formed by two gabled roofs, separated and punctuated by voids allowing trees to pierce the sky while creating semi-outdoor areas for gathering. In addition, these vast openings ensure a dynamic and continuous connection with nature despite the enclosed walls, welcoming both rain and sunlight. Inside, in contrast to the dark exterior, curved Barrisol ceilings echo natural rhythms, while warm wood finishes and diffused lighting create a warm ambience. The concept revolves around the notion of growth, illustrated by the deliberate inclusion of trees. A bottle tree, in particular the baobab, takes center stage in an interior courtyard. The building is divided into smaller masses, establishing distinct zones such as the bar, coffee area, lounge, meeting room and toilets. Inspired by the coffee brand’s links with Japanese culture, the exterior resonates with simplicity and attention to detail, and three black gable shapes, a nod to Japanese aesthetics, emerge in subtle contrast to the pinewood interiors. As customers cross the threshold, the space transforms and bends into curves, guiding them on a dynamic journey through the café. In transition to the interior, Barrisol stretch ceilings mimic the voids of the courtyard, visually linking the two spaces into a coherent whole and diffusing soft light. The ribbon-like seating arrangement surrounds the café in a continuous flow, disrupted only by the different counter heights alluding to the various functions and uses of the space. The exterior resin seats are infused with coffee grounds, rice and leaves, and the graphic elements, including fonts and signage, are inspired by the motifs of the spring season. In addition, the terrazzo floor features circular separations, interspersed with guide quotes. A whimsical touch also appears in the form of flower petal motifs radiating outwards as if they had fallen from existing trees.