Origin Cafe and Roasters Ja·丨沙特阿拉伯利雅得丨S.DA

Architects:S.DA

Area:329m²

Year:2026

Photographs:Aylul Studio

Manufacturers:101 Copenhagen,GUBI,Nova Color,Sanipex Group,The Bowery Company

Lead Architects:Duaa Abukhalaf

Category:Adaptive Reuse,Coffee Shop Interiors

Technical Team:Hani Troudi

Design Team:Kshamata Mallur, Humaiz Raafi

Engineering & Consulting > Lighting:Huda Lighting

Engineering & Consulting > Services:The Bowery Company

City:Riyadh

Country:Saudi Arabia

Text description provided by the architects. Origin Café & Roasters is located within the industrial fabric of JAX District in Diriyah, Riyadh, where a series of iconic warehouses have been repurposed into cultural and creative spaces. The project transforms one of these existing structures into a multi-functional environment that accommodates a café, roastery, and workspace, while maintaining a strong connection to its industrial origins.

The design concept is rooted in the brand name "Origin" and translates the coffee journey into a spatial sequence. The warehouse is organized into three primary zones, each representing a stage in the coffee-making process. The experience begins at the roastery, where the raw coffee beans are processed, continues through the central preparation and serving area, and culminates in a more private workspace and office zone. This linear progression establishes a narrative that guides both movement and perception within the space.

The existing warehouse shell is largely preserved, retaining its raw industrial character. New architectural elements are introduced as deliberate interventions. Within this setting, a series of large, monolithic counters defines the primary spatial experience. Positioned along a longitudinal axis, these volumes extend across the space as suspended elements, appearing to float above a series of steps. This composition introduces a sense of tension and balance, emphasizing both mass and lightness while transforming the counters into sculptural focal points.

Cast in place using cement with exposed aggregate, the counters express dual materiality through contrasting rough and smooth finishes. This language is extended into the seating area through a continuous bench, while loose black furniture pieces are carefully selected to stand out against the industrial backdrop, reinforcing the spatial identity of the project.

The division between zones is articulated through charred wood partitions, adding depth and a layer of natural texture that contrasts with the surrounding concrete and metal surfaces. The workspace is designed as a split-level environment, connected by concrete stairs and enclosed with metal cladding, integrating functional requirements within the overall architectural expression. The roastery remains open and visible, allowing visitors to engage directly with the process of coffee making. It features a large industrial roasting machine, storage displays for coffee beans, and a dedicated cupping counter, enhancing the experiential quality of the space and reinforcing the project's narrative.

Externally, the façade has been reconfigured with strategically placed openings that frame specific moments within the interior. These apertures offer glimpses into the different zones, creating a visual connection between the inside and the surrounding public realm. The roof has been reimagined with aluminum cladding and incorporates a prominent skylight positioned above the central counters. This opening introduces natural light that shifts throughout the day, casting dynamic shadows particularly through an overhead installation of suspended metal chains, adding a temporal layer to the spatial experience.

Through a careful balance of preservation and intervention, the project creates a cohesive environment that reflects the identity of Origin Café, translating the narrative of coffee into an architectural journey embedded within the industrial context of JAX.

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