Situated in the industrial landscape protection area of Beijing’s 751 Park, MONOLOGO Coffee stands as a testament to architectural innovation and preservation. Designed by SpaceStation, this coffee shop reimagines the historic site while paying homage to its industrial roots.

Architectural Context: A Tale of Preservation

The site, nestled within the 751 Park, boasts a rich history dating back to the 1970s, with remnants of the original plant still standing tall. Three imposing furnace tanks serve as focal points, evoking memories of the site’s industrial past. SpaceStation’s renovation project, the fourth “extension” of the site, seeks to seamlessly integrate past interventions while forging a cohesive narrative for the future.

Design Elements: Blending Old with New

SpaceStation’s approach revolves around the juxtaposition of materials and construction methods, celebrating the site’s evolution over time. Distinctive furniture, crafted from concrete, birch plywood, and stainless steel, delineates the various sections of the space, offering visitors a tangible connection to the site’s history and transformation.

Spatial Dynamics: Playing with Light and Space

Central to the design concept are the slender “flat columns” that intersect the three sections of the site, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. These columns not only filter natural light but also establish a rhythmic flow throughout the space, inviting guests to explore and engage with their surroundings. Transparency and shielding alternate, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior.

Architectural Dialogue: Embracing Urban Public Space

MONOLOGO Coffee transcends its role as a traditional café, embracing its identity as an urban public space. The high-ceilinged interior, adorned with monumental furnace tanks and tall columns, exudes a sense of grandeur reminiscent of a bygone era. With open façades on both sides, the interior seamlessly transitions into an urban square, inviting patrons to linger and connect.

Illuminating Equality: A Play of Light

Uniform strip lights adorn the ceiling slabs, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. This simple yet effective lighting arrangement creates an atmosphere akin to natural light, imbuing every element in the space with a sense of dignity and significance.

In essence, MONOLOGO Coffee represents a harmonious blend of past and present, where architectural innovation meets preservation, and where every element tells a story of transformation and continuity.