The Origo Coffee Shop in Bucharest Romania, designed by Lama Arhitectura represents a dream come true in the form of a startup business for an enthusiastic barista, a place he can call his own. In a space of just 65 sq.m., the Origo coffee shop functions as a coffee bar during the day but at sunset it lowers its lights and becomes an extremely cool cocktail bar, a laid back urban destination in which to unwind in downtown Bucharest.

While renovating the space, a number of old wooden beams were discovered under the plasterwork of the ceiling, these were retained and painted white, then supplemented by the industrial element of metal beams.

Although coffee is intended to be the center of attention within the design, one cannot help but comment on the unique bar feature, faced with raw metal sheeting and a Corten with massive oak counter top, an inbuilt jack raises the height from the daytime level of 80 cm. to 110 cm, during evening hours. Instead of the usual glasses that one would find suspended from an average bar, a lighthearted installation created from 276 coffee cups is a talking point, creating a complex shadow show once the lights are lowered.

The space is completed by unique, especially designed light fittings made from coffee filter bases and custom made tables. A minimal space of contrasts, light and dark, wood and metal and light and shade creating a relaxing unpretentious environment.