1Meal Diner by EMPT Studio
EMPT Studio has transformed a commercial space in Bayan Lepas into 1Meal Diner, a minimalist café characterized by natural materials and sculptural elements that cater to the local community.
Situated in Penang's bustling industrial district, the café occupies a compact footprint where the studio employed a restrained material palette to create an atmosphere of casual sophistication within budget constraints.
"The design approach focused on creating a space that would serve as a natural extension of the workplace and home environment," explained the studio. "We wanted to craft an environment that feels both accessible and refined."
The interior's visual identity emerges through a calculated interplay of materials, where locally-sourced plywood surfaces establish a warm foundation throughout the space. These wooden elements contrast with industrial-style stainless steel countertops, introducing a contemporary edge while ensuring practical durability.
A custom-designed cabinetry system performs double duty as both a functional divide between service and dining zones and a defining architectural feature. The studio developed bespoke furniture pieces that prioritize comfort while maintaining the project's understated aesthetic direction.
Overhead, a statement ceiling installation serves as the café's focal point, adding sculptural intrigue to the otherwise minimal interior. This architectural gesture creates visual interest without compromising the space's inherent simplicity.
The careful orchestration of materials, lighting, and spatial planning yields an environment that transitions seamlessly from daytime business meetings to evening family dining. Natural light filters through strategic openings, emphasizing the honest materiality of the interior surfaces.
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