Nestled subtly below street level in New York, directly opposite iconic Museum of Modern Art, the latest % Arabica café designed by Selgascano and Curtis Su Associates captures the intimacy and sensory warmth often absent in bustling Midtown.
Eschewing grand gestures, the architects transform an unassuming subterranean storefront into an organic cocoon, defined by fluid geometry and meticulous craftsmanship. Here, architecture doesn’t merely enclose space—it gently embraces the visitor.
Upon entering, the café’s interior unfolds as a carefully choreographed experience, structured by a single, elegant counter that spans almost the entire 10-meter length. This horizontal element gracefully organizes the narrow volume, accentuating the distinct visual treatment of surfaces: white-painted timber above, which amplifies reflected light against the low ceiling, and natural-toned wood below, lending tactile warmth. Together, these dual treatments harmonize to create an interior of understated sophistication.
Employing precise digital technologies, Curtis Su Associates meticulously mapped the uneven surfaces of the existing shell through 3D scanning. CNC-cut wooden panels and glass-fiber reinforced gypsum were then intricately assembled into continuous, sinuous forms, smoothing imperfections while celebrating the space’s idiosyncratic shape. The result is a seamless environment where walls and ceilings flow effortlessly together, evoking the comforting, sheltering qualities of a cave.
From street level, subtlety prevails. The façade remains quietly authentic, preserving visible traces of its past. A discreet logo hints gently at the hidden retreat within. At the threshold, a strategically placed mirror expands and distorts perspectives, offering curious passersby tantalizing glimpses into a space designed not for grand exposure, but for quiet discovery.
Selgascano and Curtis Su Associates' design for % Arabica is less about making a loud statement and more about the power of architectural intimacy. Their innovative approach marries advanced digital fabrication with thoughtful materiality, creating a hidden sanctuary that deftly balances warmth, calm, and contemporary elegance in the heart of Manhattan.
