#simplearchitecture

IntroductionOn a busy corner in a Japanese city, Yuko Nagayama & Associates built a new café called AOI Celestie Coffee Roastery. A large, curved roof made of 28,000 ceramic tiles sits above the café. The tiles shine and change with the light and rain. The design combines simplicity, nature, and daily city life. If you're ever in Japan, be sure to visit AOI café Japan for an unforgettable experience.A view of the outdoor garden featuring olive trees alongside the buildingThe Roof and TilesThe roof has a smooth, curved shape. The architects used blue tiles in six shades. The colour is light at the top and dark at the bottom. These tones reflect the sky and shine when it rains. Each tile is handmade and coated with glass glaze to reflect light. If you are interested in architecture, AOI café Japan offers a unique blend of aesthetics."We used tiles to remind people of older city buildings, before tiles disappeared from modern exteriors."— Yuko Nagayama & AssociatesInside the BuildingThe café has three levels:- Ground floor: roasting area, kitchen, and order counter.- Second floor: views of the olive garden with wide windows and natural light.- Third floor: open bar space under the curved roof, with views of the city.A central open atrium connects all levels and makes the building feel bright and connected. AOI café Japan integrates natural light beautifully. An interior view showcasing the layout and three-level distribution within the caféThe Courtyard and Green SpaceThe architects placed an open courtyard in front of the café, with olive trees and seating areas. The courtyard gives a sense of peace in the middle of the busy street. People can sit near the windows and enjoy the view outside, adding to the charm of AOI café Japan."We wanted to create a simple place where people can sit, reflect, and feel part of the surroundings."— The design teamAn overhead view of a café featuring gray concrete walls and creatively curved seating areasConnection to the CityThe café stands between tall residential buildings. Still, it feels open and light. The large roof makes the café easy to notice, but it does not feel heavy. The blue tiles help the building blend with the sky and reflect the light in a soft, natural way.Project Summary TableElementDetailsProject NameAOI Celestie Coffee RoasteryLocationJapanNumber of Tiles28,000 ceramic tilesTile TypeBlue shades with glass glazeNumber of Levels3 floorsKey FeaturesCurved roof – Olive courtyard – Large windowsMaterials UsedConcrete – Brick – Ceramic tilesDesign GoalCreate a calm and open space in the urban settingThe café features a panoramic city view through floor-to-ceiling windows, with cozy wooden furniture and greenery accents.https://archup.net/portugal-olive-guest-house/ Read the full article