The Ardiya district of Kuwait is a lively area with a mix of commercial and residential areas and public and private educational institutions. It is also home to the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, the largest football stadium in Kuwait, with a capacity of 60,000 people. The stadium hosts international matches and stands as a landmark defining the area.

Drawing inspiration from being located near the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, the concept chosen for the new store is “stadium.” Three key exterior stadium elements were extracted and reconstructed to realize a store design with a sense of affinity with this area landmark: the overall “oval shape,” the wavelike “membrane roof” that provides shelter from the wind and rain while allowing a moderate amount of natural light to enter, and the “framework,” which is lightweight yet plays a significant structural role. First, the oval shape.

In contrast to the simple box-shaped layout of the space’s interior, organic oval shapes have been applied to the walls and ceiling. This configuration narrows the space in the middle of the store, directing people’s gaze toward the back of the store.

Furthermore, as customers move further into the store, their initially narrowed gaze gradually expands, as the design aims to create a welcoming spatial experience where the customers’ visual focus peaks as they pass through the center of the space. Within this sequence of spatial experiences, the coffee counter, espresso machine, and baristas’ performances take center stage in the store layout.

Next, the membrane roof. A wavelike membrane has been used for the ceiling, lending itself to the oval shape of the space. Each membrane section is seamlessly connected and enhances the spatial continuity, drawing visitors toward the back of the store. Usually, membrane ceilings are installed by applying tension to stretch them and remove wrinkles. However, by applying a moderate amount of tension against the material’s deadweight and gravity, a uniform and smooth R-shape is maintained.

A lighting system that incorporates color and dimming functions has been integrated into the ceiling, allowing the space to be transformed to suit various scenarios throughout the day, from a cafe to an idling space to a lounge. As a result, even though they are indoors, customers can experience a sense of comfort akin to basking under gentle natural light.

Finally, the framework. Reminiscent of the stadium structure, the framework follows the shape of the membrane roof and is offset from the ceiling and walls to create a three-dimensional effect in the entire space.

Furthermore, the framework seamlessly connects to low and high tables, serving as support material bearing the weight of the tables. By using piping for table legs, bracket lights, and other furniture that is the same diameter as that used for the framework, an overall sense of unity is realized throughout the entire space.