Staying for Coffee

Designed by Tsukurto, Homeground Coffee Roasters’ new location in Singapore feels more like visiting someone’s home

Homeground Coffee Roasters’ new location in Singapore is much bigger than the original spot. At 240 square metres and with a capacity of 70 people, the new store in Tanjong Pagar spans the ground levels of two shophouses, including a small shop within the cafe.

Local interior design firm Tsukurto designed the earthy and inviting space, with its terracotta-tiled counter, cement screed flooring and light-toned brick walls and cabinetry made from natural oak veneer, solid timber and laminates. ‘We were asked to create a space with a residential and welcoming feel, as this is part of their concept. Homeground sells equipment for home brewing as well as its own coffee beans,’ explains design director Kato Yusuke. 

The exterior facade’s original colourful stained glass, half-height doors and five-foot way tiles provide a charming introduction to the shop. One door leads straight into the cafe, while the other opens into the shop, with a secondary opening connected to the cafe. The original wall between the two shophouses was demolished to create one large, open space. 

A long, winding counter allows the baristas to interact with customers at the front of the shop as well as further inside. ‘Because this counter continues to the other side of the shop, it helps to create the impression of a singular unit,’ says Yusuke. A void in the ceiling with exposed timber battens traces the counter’s trajectory.

Back-of-house facilities are place to the rear so customers can feel the open and airy space when they enter the shop. Continuing the residential theme, Yusuke combined low-slung lounge seating with long dining tables, one of which is a particularly inviting spot where natural light pours in from a skylight.  

More natural light washes in from the front windows, while low-hanging pendant lights at the counter and petite wall lamps perpetuate the cosy atmosphere. The retail portion is also enticing, designed like a residential kitchen with a central island and shelving lining the sides. It’s differentiated from the cafe with terracotta floor tiles and separated with a soft, white curtain rather than a door. Throughout, the residential theme is well translated, making it easy for customers to linger and converse over and about coffee.  

Text / Luo Jingmei
Images / Studio Periphery