Caffè Streets | Norsman Architects

A wide storefront displays to the street the intimate 1,000 square foot interior seating area and highlighted coffee bar.  Marbled bamboo plywood is used to create custom communal tables, chairs, wall paneling and a layered CNC-sculpted ceiling inspired by the baristas' artistic pouring of steamed milk into coffee. The seating plan maximizes occupancy.  This combined with a walk up coffee bar, encourages interaction reaffirming the cafe's symbiotic relationship with its community. 

Reinforcing the owner’s belief that the street is a vital component of our urban community, elements of the street are brought into the cafe.  The baristas' work is illuminated by retrofitted Chicago streetlights. Polished concrete floors connect with the city sidewalks.  A seven-foot tall photo light box of the neighborhood’s famous 6-corner intersection greets guests.

Backlit perforated metal panels at the bar filter light into the cafe.  Custom stainless steel “pour-over” bar and counters and unusual coffee making devices on display create a laboratory setting.   The impressive espresso machine design is highlighted with millwork details and serves as the centerpiece of the bar.