A new coffee shop in Paris's historic Marais district showcases an innovative fusion of Japanese craftsmanship and Parisian architectural sensibilities. KURA-GE Coffee Shop, designed by architects Moyésoa and Rémy Aznar, occupies a former retail space and represents the first outpost of the KURA-GE house, covering 60 square meters in a thoughtfully renovated interior.
The design creates a striking dialogue between two distinct cultural approaches to construction and aesthetics. French oak, specifically smoked with ammonia and shaped in Brittany, forms the structural backbone of the space. This locally-sourced material appears throughout the interior, from the counter and benches to hand-fitted joinery elements that demonstrate traditional French woodworking techniques.
The architectural language emphasizes visible construction methods, with butterfly joints and exposed wooden pegs serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. These elements articulate what the architects describe as "a language of construction made visible," allowing visitors to understand and appreciate the craftsmanship involved in creating the space. The approach reflects a commitment to transparency in both design and construction processes.
Complementing the warm wood tones, the interior features an earth-toned concrete floor in shades of pink and brown. This mineral base provides what the designers call "mineral density," anchoring the lighter wooden elements and creating visual balance throughout the compact space. The flooring choice reinforces the connection to traditional French building materials while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic.
Lighting design plays a crucial role in the overall atmosphere, with fixtures created by Inès Aznar using traditional Japanese paper. These custom lighting elements were crafted in London, representing an international collaboration that mirrors the cross-cultural nature of the project. The paper lanterns provide soft, diffused illumination that enhances the natural textures of the wood and concrete surfaces.
The design philosophy emphasizes restraint and purposefulness, with the architects noting that "nothing is superfluous; each element contributes to the space's quiet gravity." This minimalist approach ensures that every component serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, creating an environment that feels both intimate and refined. The result is a coffee shop that honors both Japanese principles of simplicity and French traditions of craftsmanship, offering visitors a unique cultural experience in the heart of Paris.
