Arabica MBS Project
Project Overview
The project follows the brand’s core “See the World through Coffee” philosophy, emphasizing cleanliness, transparency, and a timeless aesthetic that allows the product (coffee) to be the focal point. Situated within one of the world’s most luxury-focused shopping malls, the kiosk acts as a luminous “white box” that stands out against the darker, grander textures of the MBS interior.
Location:
Marina Bay Sands
Project Type:
F&B
Design Style:
Minimalist design
What Makes This F&B Design Special
Extreme Minimalism (The "All-White" Palette)
- The most striking feature is the monochromatic white interior. Every surface— from the Corian counters and the floor to the espresso machines and the ceiling—is a pristine white. This creates a clinical yet ethereal "laboratory" feel, signaling a high level of precision and cleanliness in their coffee preparation.
Iconic Branding Integration
- The Bean Sack Display: A signature of % Arabica, the design features a curved, elevated shelf lined with burlap coffee sacks. This adds a warm, organic texture to an otherwise sterile environment and visually communicates the origin of the coffee.
Curvature and Perspective
The kiosk utilizes a sweeping curved layout. This serves two purposes:
- Customer Flow: It guides the eye and the customer naturally through the ordering and pickup process.
- Mirroring Effects: The use of polished, reflective ceiling panels creates a "tunnel" effect, making the small footprint of the kiosk feel much larger and more immersive.
Illumination and Transparency
- Backlit Surfaces: The counters and shelving feature integrated LED strips that wash the surfaces in a soft, futuristic glow. This eliminates harsh shadows and makes the entire unit appear to be floating.
- Glass and View: One side of the kiosk opens up to the grand glass atrium of Marina Bay Sands, creating a stark contrast between the "contained" white space of the cafe and the "open" architectural scale of the mall.
