Introduction
Sipply Coffee, located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is a testament to adaptive reuse and innovative coffee shop interiors. Designed by sgnhA, the project focuses on preserving the building’s original modernist structure while infusing it with distinct contemporary elements.
Design Concept
The design concept revolves around the first two stories of the building. The ground floor features a central coffee bar, emphasizing symmetry, with a courtyard and spiral staircase serving as transitional spaces. The first floor houses the main seating area, complete with communal tables, banquette seating, and a balcony overlooking the front yard. A semi-indoor corridor connects to the roasting room at the rear.
Preservation and Innovation
sgnhA’s approach emphasizes the preservation of the building’s existing characteristics while introducing innovative design elements. A lightweight steel frame and recycled plastic panels create an internal envelope, seamlessly integrating new features such as flooring, walls, ceilings, and lighting. Recycled plastic proves to be an ideal material for both interior and exterior spaces, enhancing sustainability.
Dialog with Heritage
The design establishes a dialogue with the building’s heritage by incorporating elements such as existing cement tile patterns, round-shaped windows, and Art Deco-inspired motifs. These features inform the design language, influencing everything from color palettes to furniture choices. A glass wall with a curved ceiling adds depth to the space, refracting light and creating an illusion of extra dimensions, further extending the conversation between past and present.
Conclusion
Sipply Coffee by sgnhA exemplifies the harmonious blend of heritage preservation and contemporary design innovation. By respecting the building’s history and integrating sustainable materials, the project creates a unique space that pays homage to the past while embracing the present. Through thoughtful design choices and attention to detail, sgnhA has transformed Sipply Coffee into a vibrant destination where patrons can enjoy both the rich heritage of Ho Chi Minh City and the delights of modern coffee culture.
