Context and Renovation
Located in Banská Bystrica, on the ground floor of a historically renovated house, Café Výklad underwent a transformation overseen by Grau Architects in 2021. Previous renovations had obscured the original proportions of the space with plasterboard set pieces, prompting the architects to restore the archetypal qualities of the building while introducing new elements to complement its heritage.
Showcases and Natural Light
True to its name, Café Výklad features large glazed openings, or showcases, that invite ample natural light into the space. Each showcase offers a distinct atmosphere: one hosts a glass-concrete bar, another showcases the café’s neon logo, and the last serves as a central gathering area surrounded by lush greenery, creating a dynamic and inviting environment.
Design Elements and Symmetry
Suspended aluminum lamps, colored in burgundy, serve as focal points and pay homage to the historical context of the space. These chandeliers, with their intricate patterns, establish a symmetrical layout that echoes throughout the design. The interior design intentionally exposes the building’s evolution over time, with walls and ceilings revealing layers of past paint coated with a transparent finish, embracing the raw character of the space.
Softness and Contrast
The interior achieves a balance between softness and contrast, with a pink-tinted concrete floor screed providing a soft base juxtaposed with refurbished old furniture and new pieces made of bleached beech plywood. The existing toilets were preserved and painted burgundy, serving as a canvas for new illustrations and spatial objects by designer Emil Taschka, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Lighting and Ambiance
Interior lighting plays a crucial role in shaping the ambiance of Café Výklad, with a variety of lamps offering different intensities and principles of light to create a welcoming atmosphere. The space is further enriched by paintings from artists David and Marta Javorsky, adding to the overall artistic appeal and charm of the café.
Conclusion
Café Výklad stands as a testament to thoughtful restoration and design, seamlessly blending historical elements with modern aesthetics to create a vibrant and inviting coffee shop environment. Grau Architects’ meticulous approach to preserving the building’s heritage while infusing new life into the space has resulted in a charming destination that celebrates both its past and present.
