f22 foto space | LAAB Architects

f22 foto space is a one-of-a-kind photography gallery in Hong Kong, offering exhibition, a photo bookshop, a camera boutique, and a lovely cafe.

Designed by LAAB Architects in collaboration with Carlow Architecture & Design, f22 immerses visitors in the world of photography arts and craftsmanship. The design team studied camera development and used design elements from various generations of the camera lens to design the door. 

Paired with smart technology, the rotational camera door controls the amount of light at the entrance space. Besides functioning as a door, it can also create a pocket space for the reception or a photo spot when rotating at 180 degrees. The same space can also serve as a temporal waiting area during seminars for latecomers to watch relay without disturbing other audience. 

Inspired by a camera aperture, the circular staircase plays with light, shadow, and speed. The circular staircase is a hanging structure, with equally twisted members made of stainless steel and bronze. The design team ensured that each member has the same degree of twisting before going into 3-D printing and casting.

A black-painted camera documents its interaction with the photographer; similarly, f22 documents its interaction with time and people. Brass was used as the main material to fabricate the door and stairs before covering them in black paint. Over time, the black paint will wear off, revealing the brass underneath.

The two galleries are in black and white, forming a dialogue between the two floors.

Cafe 22 offers a nice gathering place for cultural activities. It offers exhibition space for budding photographers to organize their first exhibition, as well as a cozy event space that hosts seminars and jazz nights. A mirror was installed behind the counter for visitors to watch the baristas perform. There is also a square table in the middle of the cafe for visitors to gather.

The design and craftsmanship of f22 foto space have been recognized by various international award communities, including the iF Design Award, the Red Dot Design Award, the AIA (Open International) Award, and the Frame Award: Best Craftsmanship.

Project credits:

Design Architects:
LAAB Architects in collaboration with Carlow Architecture & Design

Stair Structural Engineers: 
BeFrank and Yasuhiro Kaneda Structure

cafe22 Designers & Fabricators:
LAAB in collaboration with Studio Coming Soon and Studio818

Branding & Signage Designer:
Milkxhake

Contractors & Fabricators:
Made in LAAB with AVT, Buddy Concept, Chi Keung Kee, Golden Smart, Linko, Profit+, and many more

Video Producer & Photographer:
DCinematic & LAAB Architects