Captivating Contrasts: Rawsters Coffee Shop in Istanbul's Akmerkez Mall

Rawsters Coffee and Supply Co. is a modern coffee company that is quickly making a name for itself in Istanbul. With two coffee shops strategically located in the city and its own distribution network, Rawsters is becoming one of the largest coffee chains in Turkey. What sets Rawsters apart is its unique approach to coffee culture, thanks to the creative vision of Wangan, the architectural studio behind the brand.

The second Rawsters coffee shop is situated in Akmerkez, a renowned shopping mall in Istanbul. The design of this location is a true embodiment of contrasts, aimed at captivating customers with its bold aesthetic. The interior features a charming combination of warm and cool elements. The light pink terrazzo floor, composed of traditional white marble, along with the maroon back wall and curvy plywood secondary layer, create an inviting and feminine ambiance. On the other hand, the stainless-steel coffee bar and shelves with sharp edges, as well as the navy-blue façade, exude a sense of coolness and masculinity. This unique design stands out from the greyish tones of the mall, making the coffee shop a captivating contrast to its surroundings.

To bring this concept to life, the Wangan team transformed a 35 square meter storage area within the mall. They demolished the storage space and clad the bearing wall near the façade with a curvilinear plywood layer. This layer serves as a graphics display area, featuring 60 clipping boards that are changed on a monthly basis. Moreover, the clever design of the secondary plywood layer allows for hidden storage cabinets, optimizing the efficient use of space within the coffee shop.

Every detail of the Rawsters coffee shop was carefully considered and designed with the brand's unique vision in mind. Wangan custom-made elements such as the door handle and fixed seating unit to perfectly complement the new concept. Additionally, loose furnishings, including armchairs and a sofa, were selected from Wangan's outdoor furniture line, the Punto collection. This attention to detail ensures that every aspect of the coffee shop reflects the rebellious and dynamic spirit of Rawsters.

Rawsters Coffee and Supply Co.'s collaboration with Wangan has resulted in a coffee shop that not only serves high-quality coffee but also provides an immersive experience. The bold design and clever use of contrasting elements create a visually striking environment that captures the essence of Rawsters' identity. As Rawsters continues to expand its presence in Istanbul, coffee lovers can look forward to discovering more of these unique and innovative coffee shops throughout the city.

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