A Coffee Shop Becomes a Serene Escape in the Heart of Paris

A neighborhood coffee shop is usually considered serviceable, yet rarely stylish. So when Manon Delafoy was tapped to transform a former Thai restaurant into a new java spot, she had an entirely different concept. The designer, known for spaces that showcase clean lines and natural hues, envisioned a serene escape from the bustle of Paris. “I wanted to create a peaceful, quiet place in the city that was the opposite of a crowded, basic café,” says Delafoy.

The studio was tasked with the renovation of the restaurant space located in the 8th arrondissement. The ultra compact eatery, just 322 square feet, was underwhelming. Decorated with outdated finishes and marked by an unclear graphic identity, a complete overhaul began to make the new OLYSSE an inviting location to have caffeine-infused beverages or baked goods.

Delafoy wanted to achieve a sense of softness and subtle movement, so she emphasized all types of curves, bringing fluidity to the interior. Arches serve as welcoming portals that give the petite storefront a more expansive feel.

Carefully selected materials range from matte to glossy for a delicate balance between modernity and craftsmanship. Traditional Zellige tiles with gold squares cover the backsplash and reflect the sun that filters in. Oak wood accents and flooring complement the neutral palette, adding warmth. Bespoke furnishings, like the banquette seating in the dining area, maximize functionality while optimizing all of the available floor space.

At the heart of the coffee shop, the bar is more than a piece on top of which freshly baked pastries are displayed. The sculptural centerpiece is distinctive with its trio of polished concrete hues. The refined gradient effect is reminiscent of shifting sands, which instantly draws the eye and echoes the other wavy motifs in the establishment.

Chamotte stoneware and plaster fixtures have a raw, organic appeal. The 20 marble tabletops and metal taps have an elevated look, but they are also easy to clean – a must-have in a high touchpoint environment. An array of work by local makers is showcased, with ceramic objects plus wall art by Dorothée Picard and Anje Fontaine. Small limited-edition oil paintings by Marine Echavidre feature geometrics in earthy brown, sienna, and moss. These geometrics adorn the walls, and their pops of earthy color blend with the rest of the palette.

By pairing disparate elements, Delafoy’s design offers a setting that resonates with customers, one that they are sure to return to often. “The wood, natural tones, and organic shapes feel familiar,” she notes. “I wanted to provide a bit of that comfort but in a modern way.”

For more work by Studio Manon Delafoy, visit studiomanondelafoy.com.

Photography by Camille Payat.