Alma Cafe, SW11 London
“A No-Added-Boring Cafe”
Alma Cafe was founded in 2016 with its aim is to redefine healthy breakfasts/lunches by saying goodbye to boring salads and hello to locally produced, organic and fun meals that any health conscious customer could enjoy .
When approached by Alma, Nefarious was tasked with redesigning their newest branch based on Northcote Road in Battersea, from concept to completion including new facade, signage and internal layout with inspiration from the brands relaxed and jovial nature the interior combines modern design elements with a touch of whimsy, creating a space that is both stylish and inviting. From eye-catching colour combinations to cozy seating arrangements, every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to create a unique ambience. A truly one-off brunch spot that we can see being the talk of the town!
Above: We wanted to create a facade which was eye catching yet inviting, so we decided to colour block the entire shop front including high level signage, awning, doors & windows in a reddish brown colour way . We also designed the signage including the reddish brown blade sign with brass edging that is internally illuminated. The main focus of the cafe is the counter, with a striped ombre colour blocked tile at low level and a bespoke over bar designed by us with relaxed wording and planting to bring nature into the space.
Below: We wanted the focal point of the cafe to be the counter so the rest of the main space is plastered in a neutral plaster with terracotta wall lights and roped backed FF&E. Due to the linear nature of the counter tile we wanted to add some contrast by adding curves to the space in ways such as the arched walk way into the back area with hand-painted signage as well as the bespoke finishing station with a scalloped up-stand.
Below: The back dining area has no form of natural light so we wanted to keep the space as warm and vibrant as possible. By introducing a plethora of greens/celedons into the space such as the inbuilt joinery either side of the chimney breast to the checkerboard style tiling. Arches can also be seen within this space by the bespoke arched mirror wall that can reflect light from the main facade into the rest of the room.
Above: We find bathrooms are often forgotten about in small cafes so we wanted to make these into a feature. Firstly we found the perfect yellow striped tile that we wanted to run along the floor and walls for a simple and cost effect way to inject fun into the small spaces. This paired with the perfect yellow paint for the doors and washbasin joinery lead to a match made in heaven.
Photography: Jess Hall