PLATO PARKMORE
Client brief
With a mid-70’s linear, deep space strip mall as context, the client brief
called for a revitalisation of a stale facility with immense potential.
The space was to be opened up to an inviting, on-street presence with a fresh
new aesthetic that would inspire the surrounding community to upliftment.
Client comment
I would like to give credit to Indigen Architects for the amazing product they delivered with the completion of my coffee shop - Plato Coffee Parkmore (Sandton).
The renders were handed to me, complete with the utmost detail of every aspect of the store to be. The design took into account not only visually appealing features, but also considered the functionality and flow of making coffee and moving customers on a daily basis. The white space is crisp and fresh, yet the pop of turquoise colour, created by the hand-made Kalki tiles, adds a beautiful Mediterranean finish. This is further enhanced by the beautiful face of the Plato Greek philosopher that has been placed against the back feature wall. Lighting in the store adds a soft glow to the space. It has been incorporated from the ceiling and the bottom of the counter, highlighting all the right corners and edges of the serving space. Furthermore, the gender neutral bathrooms have been designed with funky black finishes, including the bordered mirrors, basin taps, handbag hooks and bathroom brushes.
I surely can say that these architects have brought life to a once grey empty space, and they sure do know how to match what they promised to deliver.
-Reney Snyman
Project description
A high volume, deep space, clerestory lighting and a flood of natural light inspired the conceptual elements of linearity and illuminance in the design.
A rectilinear texture was introduced to emphasise the volume and depth of the void with a suspended lattice structure and vertical colour strips that draw the eye right up to soffit level and take the viewer deep into the open space.
Hand-crafted, glazed, tiles were selected in emerald for their brilliance in the natural sunlight which fills the space from the north facing entrance for most of the day.
The linear texture was further explored with a raked finish on the tiles in contrast to the smooth subdued walls. This play on texture enhanced the refraction of light to create a sense of ethereal illuminance.
The simplistic Plato brand was showcased on a minimalistic stage with the barista and his art of creating the perfect coffee as the center piece.
