JOIN THE PROCESS

Research Report 

At the beginning of the project, I started by creating a thorough research report. It is essential to conduct a thorough research report before starting a design process as it provides valuable insights into what works well in existing spaces through competitor analysis and case studies. By studying successful designs and identifying areas for improvement, you can build on what is already effective while avoiding common mistakes. This research also helps pinpoint technical challenges and specific considerations to address in the design. Additionally, analyzing the demographics and target audience offers a deep understanding of users' needs, enabling the design to be tailored for an optimal user experience.

Concept development and Branding

I developed two quite different concepts for the client, which can be a positive approach as it offers flexibility and showcases alternative ways to achieve the project goals. By presenting different concepts, we can find the one that best resonates with both the client’s needs and vision. The concepts were based on some of the weaknesses I identified in the report, and instead of viewing them as challenges, I chose to turn them into opportunities to create even better solutions. This ensures that the design not only addresses the weaknesses but also leverages them to add more value for both the client and the local community.

Having a clear concept and strong brand identity is crucial for creating a cohesive and memorable experience for users. The concept acts as a guiding thread throughout the entire design process, ensuring that every choice, whether it's materials, colors, or functionality, aligns with the overall vision. This helps to strengthen the project’s message and appeal more directly to the target audience.

A strong brand identity is important because it creates a unique identity that differentiates the project from competitors and gives it a clear position in the market. A well-developed brand builds trust, recognition, and loyalty among customers. Additionally, it ensures that every aspect of the project – from the logo and typography to packaging and interior design – aligns with the overarching concept, creating a unified experience for both users and customers.

Concept Proposal 1: Secret Garden

Concept Explanation – Secret Garden

Secret Garden is a café that feels like a hidden gem, where nature’s beauty and colors evoke a sense of peace and joy. During the research phase, it was discovered that the café is slightly tucked away, especially from the campus. Instead of seeing this as a challenge, it was turned into an opportunity by creating a concept that is both exciting and intriguing – a hidden garden.

From the street facing the main road, the café is visible, but it is the lush surroundings and the fresh, colorful curb appeal that truly catch the eye. With flowers and greenery, Secret Garden invites everyone into an oasis in a busy day. The color palette is inspired by a wildflower meadow hidden in nature, bringing a fresh and uplifting feel that brings light into a hectic day.

Brand Identity
The Secret Garden brand focuses on natural and healthy ingredients. The logo is inspired by the wildflower meadow and reflects the fresh, natural colors of the concept. The packaging is recyclable, and the café also offers reusable cups to reduce environmental impact.

Moodboard
The moodboard for the concept shows how the beautiful colors from the wildflower meadow can be implemented in food, details, and design. The senses are stimulated by soothing birdsong and laughter, inviting food and drinks with a taste of summer, rough natural materials, and the scent of freshly ground coffee and fresh flowers.

Floorplan
The floorplan shows the seating in the café. This plan shares many similarities with the other concept but includes more intimate seating that enhances the feeling of sitting in a garden while maintaining good circulation. The materials have finishes that reflect the beauty and imperfection of a flower, with variations in colors and materials, where each tile or wood piece is unique. The plans for the café counter are the same as in Nexus, but the counter is upgraded with materials and colors that reflect the Secret Garden concept.

Concept Proposal 2: Café Nexus

Concept Explanation - Café Nexus
Café Nexus  is a unique meeting place where different elements come together to create memorable flavors and experiences. The café is strategically located between the university, the hospital, and busy residential areas, serving as the heart of the community, where people from all walks of life gather. In the café’s warm atmosphere, design, textures, and colors blend, just like the people who meet there. Nexus Café is more than just a café; it is a lively gathering place that plays a central role in the social life of the community.

The café’s design and color palette is carefully crafted to reflect different nexuses in everyday life. Silver and gray symbolize the urban environment and the city’s diversity. The coral color captures the essence of life and energy, inspired by the heart, which is the body’s central nexus. Green tones bring the harmony of nature into the space, where different elements interact, just like in the café’s community. Black represents the café’s core – the black coffee, which creates meaningful connections and conversations.

Brand Identity

Café Nexus brand is designed to be cohesive and memorable. The packaging is carefully matched to the café’s color palette, and together with a modern and minimalist logo, it creates an elegant and inviting expression. The products are designed with contrasts that reflect the café’s unique interior, while the menu offers fresh juices and dishes with vibrant colors and contrasts. Our specialty is pastries shaped like knots, where flavors meet and combine to create a harmonious experience. These represent small physical nexuses.

Nexus Café is about more than just coffee – it’s about creating connections. The café aims to be the natural place where people meet, share, and find inspiration. The goal is to become an integral part of the community, where everyday moments turn into meaningful memories.

Moodboard
The moodboard provides a visual glimpse of what makes Café Nexus special. The color palette and texture contrasts appeal to both sight and touch, while the scent of freshly baked bread, fresh coffee, and vibrant plants fills the space. Varied, modern music creates an atmosphere of calm and energy, and the flavors – from fresh juices to rich coffee – complete the sensory experience. All these elements work together to create a holistic and inspiring experience.

Floorplan
The floorplan shows the thoughtful organization of the café. A shelf placed in the corner creates contrast and serves as a display space for products that reinforce the brand. The outdoor area combines café tables, bar tables, and benches with fixed tables to maximize space utilization and circulation. Outdoors, the focus is on color contrasts, while texture contrasts dominate the service area. The counter is redesigned with tiles, a new countertop, and fronts that align with the concept, and all appliances are integrated for a seamless and modern experience.

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