In the dynamic bustle of Silom, where a vibrant mix of locals and international visitors frequent the Hindu Temple, you'll find 'Printa Cafe' tucked away just 500 meters down Pan Road. Set in a narrow alley behind the temple, the cafe's Luxury Cottage interior design offers a stark contrast to the bustling environment outside.

'Printa Cafe' represents another venture by Da – Parinda Prajakthum, well-known for founding 'Glazziq', an eyewear brand. Although she already has an established presence in the eyewear market, her passion for the food industry led to the creation of this unique space. The cafe features a menu of Asia Fusion brunch items, accompanied by a selection of beverages and desserts. Additionally, She intends to dedicate part of the cafe as a showroom for the Glazziq brand.

For this project, mArchten considered the idea of crafting a new user experience by merging the functionalities of an eyewear store and a cafe into a shared space. This innovative approach not only creates a new business model but also introduces the products and services of both ventures simultaneously. All of this is achieved through the thoughtful execution of a seemingly small design endeavor.

A Relaxed European Ambience

Printa Cafe focuses on a warm, retro European "Cottage" style in its decor, crafting a cozy atmosphere with light wood elements found in features like parquet floors, wooden window frames, and freestanding furniture. The walls are a mix of white-painted brick near the counter and modern enhancements with molding accents on walls and ceilings. Designers have utilized clear glass walls to flood the interior with natural light, adding a refreshing touch with strategically placed potted plants.

A Cafe Sharing Space with an Eyewear Store

The innovative concept centers around designing an integrated space where patrons can simultaneously explore eyewear collections and indulge in a leisurely brunch. This dual-purpose environment not only maximizes the utility of the space but also enhances the customer experience by creating a dynamic, multifunctional setting.

Upon analysis, customers are categorized into three distinct groups: those who visit specifically for the cafe's unique culinary offerings, those drawn to the curated eyewear selections, and a new, emerging group attracted by the novelty of the combined atmosphere. This approach effectively broadens the appeal and reach of both businesses, fostering a community of patrons who appreciate the synergy of retail and dining in one harmonious location.

Cafe Customers

The flow of traffic around the iconic Hindu Temple brings a steady stream of patrons to the cafe, where visitors often seek a leisurely respite with food and beverages after their temple visit. This setting offers a seamless blend of relaxation and retail, where customers can explore eyewear selections while enjoying their meals.

The strategic placement of furniture and display units is pivotal in influencing purchase behavior. Designers have thoughtfully positioned the eyewear display cases to face outward toward the front of the store. This layout not only enhances product visibility but also entices passersby to step inside and explore. By integrating this retail element into the cafe environment, the design encourages spontaneous interactions with the products, ultimately facilitating increased sales opportunities.

Glazziq's Eyewear Try-On Area

Customers visiting the Glazziq eyewear area often come with specific products already in mind. Trying on glasses in-store helps these customers make more informed purchasing decisions. If they don’t find the perfect pair immediately, there are plenty of other models available to ensure everyone walks away satisfied with their selection. To enhance the retail experience, the showroom features a unique display case equipped with a movable ladder inspired by European libraries. This charming element not only enhances the aesthetic but also serves a practical function in arranging and accessing the eyewear collection, offering a distinctive and engaging shopping experience.

Opening New Experiences for Consumers

Glazziq, primarily an online brand, offers a home trial service for their eyeglasses. However, the opportunity to physically engage with the products in-store significantly simplifies the selection process for customers, enabling them to directly try on the products to make informed purchasing decisions.

The vision of mArchten is to create a shared space for the cafe and eyewear showroom, ensuring both areas complement each other without detracting from their individual brand identities. This innovative approach crafts a new kind of user experience that understands and caters to diverse customer types. It expands the visual landscape for new customer segments, adapting to the evolving preferences and expectations of modern consumers.