A great coffee cafe isn’t just about good coffee (although it is important), it’s also about the whole experience. From the moment a customer walks in, every detail, from the lighting to the layout, sets the tone. Architectural design plays a big role in making a space feel intentional, welcoming, and easy to navigate. Whether you're starting from scratch or refreshing an existing spot, we sat down with design-experts to get their take on creating a well-designed space.
Start with a Clear Concept
Before diving into design decisions, lock in the vibe you’re going for. Cozy and rustic with warm wood tones? Or sleek and modern with clean lines? Defining your concept early helps guide everything from material choices to layout. It’s also about the feeling you want to create. "Understanding how the intangible integrates with tangible is formative in creating the soul of each project," says Ana Calic of Ewert Leaf.
Magnetic Menu Board at Lune, Melbourne
Make the Layout Work for You
A cafe should be intuitive to move through. Think about how customers will enter, order, grab their coffee, and find a seat. A smart layout avoids congestion and keeps things flowing smoothly. Open spaces, clear signage, and a well-placed counter all help make things feel effortless. "A space can look beautiful but can be a complete failure if it doesn’t functionally perform the way it should," explains Buster Caldwell of Wonder Group.
Use Natural Materials for a Timeless Look
Wood, stone, and metal bring warmth and texture to a space, making it feel lived-in and inviting. High-quality finishes that age well add character and authenticity. "With each project, every material is collectively assessed and fine-tuned to ensure the overall palette is as good as it possibly could be," says Chris Stevens of CTRL Space. Bringing in bespoke details and local craftsmanship can take a space from good to memorable.
Lighting Sets the Mood
Lighting can make or break a cafe’s atmosphere. Natural light during the day creates an open, airy feel, while warm ambient lighting adds coziness in the evening. The right mix of lighting makes a space feel both functional and inviting. "Lighting that responds to the occasion is crucial—hospitality is all about vibe," says Caldwell. Treat lighting as a key design element, not just an afterthought.
The Details Make the Difference
Custom shelving, statement counters, and unique ceiling treatments can elevate your cafe’s design. Even small touches, like the shape of door handles or the style of menu boards, can bring everything together. "Always include an element of surprise. Being able to surprise a client with an unconventional spatial solution or unique material they didn’t know they loved is always fulfilling," suggests Ana Calic.
Signage That Feels Like Part of the Design
Signage shouldn’t feel like an afterthought—it should blend seamlessly with the space. Minimal, well-crafted menu boards and wayfinding signs keep things looking cohesive. At George & Willy, we believe signage should be both practical and design-forward. "Signage is inherently a difficult product to make well, and having an incredibly well-designed & thoughtful solution off-the-shelf is such a lifesaver," says Caldwell. Thoughtful signage makes customer interactions smoother while adding to the overall aesthetic.
Our Round Sign
Aesthetics and Comfort Go Hand in Hand
A beautiful cafe should also be comfortable. Seating choices, table heights, and layout should encourage people to stay and enjoy their time. Soft textures, cozy nooks, and greenery can add warmth and balance out architectural elements. "The interior needs to be the film set where the staff can perform their best," explains Caldwell. Creating an inviting space isn’t just about looks—it’s about how people feel when they’re in it.
Designing a cafe is about more than just making it look good—it’s about making it feel good, too. A thoughtful mix of aesthetics, function, and atmosphere encourages customers to linger, connect, and return. Whether it’s through smart layout choices, material selection, or lighting design, a well-curated cafe should feel like an experience—one that sticks with customers long after they leave.
