COMPLETED PROJECT

AX Cafe

AX Café was conceived as a welcoming social space connected to a cultural institution
– a place where visitors can pause, reflect, and extend their experience beyond the
exhibition itself.

YEAR

2020

LOCATION

Leicester, UK

CREATIVE LEAD

Oliwia Florkiewicz

PROGRESS

Pending Project

The café also functions as a supportive backdrop for small cultural performances taking place outside, where actors recreate historical scenes connected to the surrounding site. A discreet upper-level dressing room provides a space for performers to prepare before stepping onto the outdoor stage. Within the interior, additional facilities such as a conference room and visitor amenities ensure the space remains flexible and functional, allowing it to host both everyday gatherings and occasional cultural events. The result is a space that blends hospitality, culture, and storytelling – a quiet architectural pause within a vibrant public environment.

Designed as part of an academic exploration the project focuses on creating an atmosphere that gently bridges culture, storytelling, and everyday social interaction. The interior is defined by warm wooden finishes and soft, ambient lighting that envelops the space, creating a calm and inviting environment. Natural textures and light combine to form a cosy atmosphere, encouraging visitors to slow down, sit comfortably, and share moments together. Sculptural lighting elements suspended within the double-height space add a dynamic visual identity while maintaining the warmth of the interior.

The project is designed exclusively for a client.