Situated in Bratislava, Slovakia, Café Výklad, designed by Grau Architects, occupies the ground floor of a house with a rich history of renovations. The latest renovation aimed to restore the original proportions of the space while incorporating new elements to complement its archetypal qualities.
Design Concept
True to its name, Café Výklad (“Showcase Café”) features large glazed openings or showcases that bathe the interior in natural light and offer passersby glimpses of its unique atmosphere. Each showcase creates a distinct ambiance: one showcases a glass-concrete bar, another highlights the café’s neon logo, while the last serves as a central gathering area surrounded by lush greenery.
Architectural Elements
The design incorporates suspended lamps made of burgundy-colored aluminum, forming patterns that echo throughout the space. These lamps pay homage to the historical context of the café while maintaining symmetry in the layout. The interior retains traces of its past, with walls and ceilings bearing layers of paint, creating a raw and authentic character.
Interior Aesthetics
Softness is introduced through a pink-tinted concrete floor screed finish, contrasting with refurbished old furniture and new pieces crafted from bleached beech plywood. The existing toilets were preserved and adorned with illustrations and spatial objects by designer Emil Taschka, adding a touch of modernity to the original tiling.
Lighting Design
Lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing the ambiance of Café Výklad. A variety of lamps offer different intensities and principles of light, contributing to the overall atmosphere of the café. The space is further enriched by paintings by artists David and Marta Javorsky, adding a layer of artistic expression to the interior.
Conclusion
Café Výklad, designed by Grau Architects, seamlessly blends historical elements with modern aesthetics to create a unique and inviting space. With its emphasis on natural light, thoughtful design elements, and integration of art, the café offers patrons a captivating experience that celebrates both the past and the present.
