Kokomo is a cafe with a plant-based menu located in Vancouver’s historic Chinatown neighbourhood. The intention of the project was to create a simple and accessible space using natural materials and a modest colour palette that encourages conversation and communal dining.
The main feature of the space is a single white concrete communal table. The curved shape of the table encourages socializing and conversations between friends and strangers while the large central planter makes it comfortable for solo diners. The planter is clad in dark wood half-rounds and the curved shape of the table is mirrored by the curve of the service counters. Behind the service counter, the kitchen is visible through a large circular pass which matches the windows of the adjacent heritage buildings. Many original characteristics of the space were left, such as the open facade and stoop as well as the mezzanine full of storage which is accessed by staff with the help of a ladder. Custom stools and lighting complete the room.