A Filipino Interpretation of Modernist Architecture Unlike the rest of Makati today, the northern end of Paseo de Roxas in Makati is anchored by a low complex rather than a tall skyscraper. This is the elegant Asian Institute of Management, designed by architect Gabriel Formoso and completed in 1971. In my opinion, the building is […]
A Complete Guide to Cafecore Decor
A term coined by coffeecionados, cafécore glamorizes the coffee shop experience and lets you curate your own space so you can curl up with that perfect cuppa. With Scandinavian, Japandi, neo-industrial, and hygge influences, this rising trend offers versatility for any sized home to give you that authentic and warm café vibe. And just like coffee, you need the right ingredients to get that perfect blend.
But First, Coffee Equipment
Start your day in the most café-ish way by investing in the right coffee gear. Simple brewing equipment like a coffee machine, moka pot, or French press are cafécore staples. And if you’re a true coffee purist, you’ll need a grinder, coffee scale, gooseneck kettle, and a pour over to complete your set. But if you want to fully unleash your inner barista, get an espresso machine.
Simple Furniture Brings Out the Cafécore

To achieve peak cafécore, aim for bistro-style furniture. These maximize comfort and have a minimal footprint, no need to worry about overwhelming your café corner. A two-seater set with a foldable table and chairs is a great choice if you need to tuck away your little coffee nook.
Wood and woven chairs not only make rearranging your space easier but also lend a charming, vintage vibe. Round wrought iron or marble tables are also a stylish choice.

But if you want comfier seating, opt for a banquette instead. Compared to single chairs, banquettes make your cafécore space look more inviting, especially for casual gatherings. As you can place them flush against the wall, they provide more floor space for other furnishings you want to add. Adding banquettes can also be your chance to turn your bland, unused corners into a lively space.
Perfect Your Café Corner with Color

Cafécore is about creating a relaxing personal space. And since you’re in your own home, you have the liberty to creatively design it exactly how you like.
Start with color. Soft, muted hues like pastels and earth tones echo nature’s serene atmosphere. On the other hand, combining different shades of brown mimic the warmth of your favorite brew.
For additional texture, you can accent a certain wall section with wallpaper, wooden slats, or tile. These make your walls stand out while providing a dynamic ambiance.
Lights as Warm as Your Coffee

Like how coffee shops’ vibrance soothes your senses, your cafécore space needs proper lighting to fully bring out that calming feel.
Placing your set up by a window can go a long way to brighten your little café. You can even put café curtains to enjoy a little privacy while still letting natural light pierce through.
You can also add warm artificial lighting. Pendant lights and recessed lighting help you achieve a softer cafécore look at any time of the day. Lamps and wall sconces further define the leisure function of the area.
The Key Is to Make It Yours

Your café won’t be complete without some finishing accessories. With a few open shelves, the possibilities for personalizing your home café becomes limitless.
Fill them with your favorite reads, framed photos, artwork, or potted plants, there are no restrictions when putting in the final touches to your space. You can display your proud collections from cookware, glassware, vinyl albums, and souvenirs to truly own your cafécore interior.
A need for a caffeine fix shouldn’t doesn’t always have to be going outside and waiting in long lines. By adopting a cafécore interior design, you can savor simple pleasures indoors to kickstart your day.
Photographed by Ed Simon
Read more: 3 Newly Opened Cafes with Different Characters in Metro Manila
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