Paradiso
Nomos architects

Paradiso (www.cafeparadiso.ch) is a coffee shop located in a converted bicycle workshop, in a former industrial area of Geneva.

The fully glazed storefront opens up on the facade of the Ethnography Museum of Geneva across the road. Diamond shapes and strict lines on the opposite museum wall contrast with the round figures of the bar and wall recess. The deliberate curved-out edges of the counter and floor empty spaces create fluid movements inside. Together, lines, arches and flow become elements of a complimentary geometrical language.

The high and lively space on the ground floor is extended by a staircase that leads to a more intimate mezzanine. A single, continuous material is used for the floor and steps ; a terrazzo composed of fragments of black and white Carrara and red Verona marble. The white Carrara marble counter is supported by black, slotted wooden boards that recall stone pillars. The handrail and wall light fixtures are made of brass. A vintage Italian chandelier, also made of brass, is a centrepiece providing subtle and retro lighting to the bar area.

This tailored composition of shapes and materials creates a unique atmosphere, reminiscent of a genuine Italian caffe.