PYRAMID
PLANNING A COFFEE CAFE
The Pyramid Centre, prominently situated in Southsea, Portsmouth, is an iconic leisure complex with a rich history. Nestled on the scenic Southsea seafront, it boasts stunning views of the Solent and is a landmark known for its distinctive pyramid-shaped architecture. The center has been a focal point of community life since its inception, offering a variety of recreational activities and amenities.
The Pyramid Centre’s unique design is characterized by its geometric architecture, which includes large glass facades and pyramid-like structures. These features allow for ample natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere inside. The spacious interior is well-suited for diverse uses, with high ceilings and open floor plans that can be easily adapted for various purposes.
Currently, the Pyramid Centre offers a range of facilities including a kid's play area, gym areas, and event spaces. However, significant portions of the center remain underutilized, presenting an excellent opportunity for redevelopment. The existing infrastructure provides a solid foundation for transformation into a vibrant café space, leveraging its prime location and architectural charm.
HISTORY OF PYRAMID
Planning to spend some time at the Portsmouth Central Library, immersing myself in the history of the pyramid site to gain a deeper understanding before kicking off the project.
Pyramid at 1959
Pyramid in 1970 aria view
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Pyramid in 1988
DESIGN BRIEF
Our project aims to transform the underutilized spaces within the Pyramid Centre in Southsea, Portsmouth, into a vibrant café that will comfortably accommodate a large number of patrons, creating a welcoming environment for both members and non-members. The design will evoke a relaxed, beachy vibe inspired by the nearby coast, using a color palette of soft blues, sandy beiges, and seafoam greens, along with natural materials like reclaimed wood and rattan.
The café will feature an open floor plan with flexible seating arrangements, including communal tables, cozy nooks, bar seating, and an inviting outdoor patio area. We will maximize natural light and incorporate warm, ambient lighting to enhance the coastal ambiance. The inclusion of greenery will promote a natural, fresh atmosphere. Functional elements like a traditional bar area, free Wi-Fi, and convenient charging stations will cater to modern needs, and sustainable practices such as recycling, compostable packaging, and energy-efficient systems will be prioritized.
By creating a dynamic and inclusive space that celebrates its seaside location, the Café will serve as a community hub and an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.
TAKING INSPIRATION FROM OTHER CAFES
Walking the streets to explore more cafes is an excellent way for me, as an interior architecture student, to gather inspiration from a variety of sources. By immersing myself in different environments, I can observe firsthand the materials, color schemes, furniture, and overall design elements that make each cafe unique. This hands-on experience allows me to better understand the practical applications of various materials and design concepts.
Seeing materials used in real life offers a tangible understanding that textbooks and online resources often cannot provide. It helps me discern which materials are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and durable in a real-world setting. Moreover, experiencing the ambiance and how different spaces make people feel can inform my design choices, ensuring that the spaces I create are both beautiful and comfortable. This method of gathering inspiration enriches my projects, providing a well-rounded perspective that combines theoretical knowledge with practical insights.
Florence Hotel, South Sea
Target Audience
Local Residents
The primary target audience for the Café includes the local residents of Southsea and the greater Portsmouth area. These individuals are looking for a welcoming and convenient spot to socialize, relax, and enjoy quality food and beverages. The café will provide a community-focused environment where locals can gather for casual meetups, family outings, or solo visits, making it a staple in their daily lives.
Members of the Pyramid Centre
Members of the Pyramid Centre, including those who use its recreational and fitness facilities, are another key audience. The café will enhance their visits by providing a convenient and enjoyable place to relax before or after their activities. Membership perks, such as discounts or exclusive menu items, can be offered to encourage repeat visits and strengthen the café's relationship with this group.
Families
Families looking for a casual dining option that is kid-friendly will find the Coastal Haven Café appealing. The relaxed atmosphere, diverse menu options, and outdoor seating area make it a great choice for family outings. Special events and activities, such as weekend brunches or family game nights, can further attract this group.
After exploring numerous creative and innovative projects, I finally came across one that truly excited me with its extreme creativity. It's situated in a cavernous space that was formerly a theater and recording studio.
Mo de Movimiento is an exemplary project by Lucas Muñoz that redefines sustainable design in the hospitality industry. Located in Madrid, this café and restaurant occupies a cavernous space that previously served as a theater and recording studio, adding a rich historical layer to its innovative design.
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Café
Strengths
- Prime Location: The café's location within the Pyramid Centre on the Southsea seafront provides stunning views and easy access, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.
- Unique Beachy Vibe: The coastal-inspired design and décor create a distinctive and appealing atmosphere that sets the café apart from competitors.
- Versatile Space: The open floor plan and flexible seating arrangements can accommodate various group sizes and events, enhancing the café's functionality.
- Community Hub: The café aims to serve as a central gathering place for the local community, fostering social interactions and community engagement.
Weaknesses
- Seasonal Variability: The café's reliance on tourist traffic may lead to significant fluctuations in customer numbers, especially during off-peak seasons.
- Initial Investment: High initial costs for renovating and redesigning the space, as well as implementing sustainable practices, could be a financial strain.
- Competition: The presence of other cafés and dining options in the Southsea area means the Café will need to consistently differentiate itself to attract and retain customers.
Initially, when we presented this plan to the client, they requested a few changes in the placements and layout. After incorporating their feedback, we presented the revised plan in class on May 8th. During this session, we received critiques from two professors who provided valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.
"CRITIQUES"
Pyramids – Group 1:
- Good use of case studies and mood boards
- Need to be clear on material use and sustainability
- Outcomes weren’t comparative of case studies
- Aerial images to support analysis
- More contextual analysis
- Maps identifying current uses on the site
- Good technical understanding and requirements
- What precedents are there for the VR room?
- Needs analysis and explaining as to why the VR room is there/being used
We diligently worked on these critiques to refine our design further. The feedback focused on optimizing the space usage, enhancing the aesthetic elements, and improving the overall functionality of the zones. After addressing these points, we made significant adjustments to our project.
As a result, our final presentation showcased a well-thought-out design that met both the client's and professors' expectations. The project evolved into a cohesive and polished space, reflecting the collaborative efforts and iterative process that led to its successful completion.
VR Room was asked to be removed by our client on 8th May after our presentation as he asked us to mainly focus on the cafe part
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