Truth Coffee Shop

Name: Truth Coffee Shop
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Design: Haldane Martin



One of the most noticeable trends throughout the world currently is the influx of industrial. With a raw nature, truth of materials, and authenticity it is easy to see how so many have grown to love this aesthetic. As with any trend, there grows the group of people who yearn to be different and to expand past what is 'trendy'. One of the most common trends I see coming into favor is Steampunk. While I can see direct link from industrial to steampunk, I feel the need to stress that these two styles are by no means the same. Truth Coffee Shop is a great example of what steampunk represents and showcases the differences between the two styles flawlessly. 



The steampunk style relies heavily on the mixture science fiction and steam powered machinery. Blurring the line between industry and decoration, steampunk can incorporate a varying degree of components and characteristics. 


While both styles showcase natural woods and metals, steampunk does so in a mechanical way. Touches of Victorian and Art Nouveau can be witnessed through the rich hues, ornate details, and elaborate curves. 


What I love about the Truth Coffee space is that they took the machinery and components of coffee roasting and brewing and used them as inspiration for their steampunk interior. By imagining these machines as both form and function, they crafted a space that perfectly blends the machinery with the art of coffee. 


All images © This is colossal

Clarke's Bar & Dining Room

Name: Clarke's Bar & Dining Room
Location: Cape Town, South Africa


Clarke's is on of those places that I wish was located in the US. The minimalist exterior, simple and clear signage, use of natural materials and execution of contrast are perfect. The entire place feels cohesive, seamless, comfortable, and carefree. Clarke's is a perfect example of well done simplicity and a reminder to us all that we don't need more for the space to feel special.








all photos © Guy With Camera

Carne SA





Name: Carne SA
Location: Cape Town, South Africa


This space feels completely raw, but in a purposeful way. I love the contrast between the exposed materials and the extremely chic ghost chairs. The space was designed for longevity and the style was catered to match the food being served. They were going for an "Italian butcher-shop eatery" and used classic elements found in traditional butcher shops in Italy to direct the material selection for the space. The stainless steel floors, for example, seem to be a reference to the stainless steel meat slicer. The space has a great "no-fuss" feel and is just different enough to be visually interesting while still maintaining complete comfort and function.





All images © The Contemporist