Tomislav Mihaldinec

Café bar KÔTA is launched as a part of UPI 2M BOOKS, bookstore for architecture, civil engineering, design, art and photography in Zagreb. KÔTA is composed as a concept-bar for all architecture, design and spatial-art fans whether they are architects or experts themselves, or just „normal“people who are re-decorating their own living space. It has also newly formed passage connection with the UPI-2M BOOKSHOP.

Wall finishing is solved by inverse operation than usual – existing mortar from the walls is removed and old-brick walls are left visible. Solid ash wood is used for floor finishing. In existing space are placed 3 elements with different function and shape: spatial meander, catalogue corner and service box. Spatial meander covered with golden retro wallpaper is defining functionally different corners of the space following the logic of construction and existing space elements. A huge wall-steel case catalogue corner is offering free catalogues for architecture, design and civil engineering. Shiny black ceramic service box is consisted of men and women toilets and storage space.

Old chairs and tables are restored by drug addicts therapy centre what is part of their income. This relatively rough interior is equipped modern illumination system. Each micro facility inside the cafe is defined by the light. Like in theatre – the lightning intensity could be regulated to fit different atmospheres and programs. The aim of KOTA is to promote and to advance architecture, design and other spatial arts by having various events organised, so the space could easily be transformed to host different activities.