French Kitsch III Café by Touch Architect

The French Kitsch III café, located in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, is a remarkable architectural project designed by local studio Touch Architect (previously).

The core design philosophy of the café revolves around two primary elements: French elegance and the concept of ‘Kitsch,’ a celebration of imperfection. This intriguing combination is evident from the moment you step into the cafe, where the space is shaped to embody the imperfect beauty of a croissant. The owner’s love for French bulldogs was also incorporated by the studio as a key element of the brand identity, adding to the playful yet sophisticated vibe of the café.

Drawing inspiration from the grandeur of French cathedrals, Touch Architect employed rhythmic arches throughout the café’s design. But in a deliberate departure from symmetry, these arches are imperfect and varied in scale. The structure begins with a perfect rectangular mass, which is then transformed by carving out these distinctive arches on the first level and inverting them on the second. Textured concrete is another element that plays a role in reinforcing the concept of ‘perfection of imperfection.’ The walls, intentionally left unsmooth, reveal the raw beauty of the material, celebrating its authenticity. This choice of material beautifully contrasts with the café’s furniture, decorations and strategically placed LED lights.

Photos: Metipat Prommomate & Anan Naruphantawat

More architecture inspiration Touch Architect’s website