Naked Espresso

Studio Ninetynine designed the interior of the first Naked espresso bar in Amsterdam. Although it is rather a lucky coincidence that it is located in Amsterdam’s Red Light District, the name of the Espresso bar originally refers to a very specific way of preparing espresso. The interiors, therefore, were inspired by the literal meaning of the word: an unroasted ‘naked’ espresso bean that changes from soft green via various shades of brown to a deep dark brown during the roasting process.

  This range of colours forms the palette for the interior in a mix of soft and rough materials. The layout of the bar is straightforward. A long counter cladded with very dark brown bricks and finished with an oak counter top is the most important element of the space and leads guests deeper into the bar. On the opposite side, a wooden seating element with nude leather details invites people to sit down and watch the baristas at work.

A green wall with black linear wall bracket lamps contrasts with the back drop of the bar which features a combination of dark grey zinc panels and reclaimed wood slats. A long wooden bench with cognac leather seating pads and white marble bistro tables along the back facade refers to a typical coffee bar terrace. Slightly hidden, a third seating area invites guest to stay longer. This booth with soft velvet cushions and a cloud of pendant lamps is the cosy hangout of the bar.

Naked Espresso, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Program: bar
Design: Studio Ninetynine
Team: Jeroen Vester, Ulrike Lehner (lead designers)
Area: 60 sqm
Completion: 2017