As we started thinking about this project, we instantly began dreaming about the many (now dwindling) Irani cafes in Karachi of the 1960s era because of the vicinity this building belongs to. After looking at these case studies, we were delighted to draw a material board that was truly, intrinsically Karachi.
From the Irani chairs to the poured terrazzo flooring, this project has been an ode to the coastal city in terms of spatial quality and craft. The central flooring pattern in blue tile is reminiscent of the ubiquitous decorative motifs that were used in old buildings and work as a space defining tool as well. Where the seating is more formal, wood is used to accentuate the zone and a touch of red bricks on the wall brings in the regional charm of Sindh.
Deep blue colour trickles in to lend a pop to the walls and offsets the terrazzo while enforcing KPMG’s identity. Since the views from this building offer very little, we converted a small part of the cafeteria into a densely planted balcony. We have tried to incorporate local materials and finishes that lend a soft experiential quality to the space.