In the heart of Geneva, Switzerland, Sawerdo Coffee & Bakery stands as a testament to resilience and community amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Designed by BUREAU architects Daniel Zamarbide, Carine Pimenta, and Galliane Zamarbide, this 200 m² space transcends its function as a coffee shop, embodying a vision of togetherness and shared experiences.
A Gathering Place in Uncertain Times
With the backdrop of two years marked by the pandemic, the founders of Sawerdo embarked on a mission to create a space where people could come together without fear. Despite the prevailing sense of distrust, the architects envisioned Sawerdo as a haven where proximity fosters spontaneous conversations and connections, transcending concerns about viral transmission.
Designing for Connection
The design ethos of Sawerdo revolves around a central hosting table that serves as the focal point of the space. This table, crafted from traditional bread-making materials like marble and steel, is versatile, accommodating various configurations and fostering a sense of communal dining reminiscent of a “table d’hôtes” experience.
Bridging Art and Architecture
Drawing inspiration from Jeff Wall’s iconic photograph “Dressing Poultry,” which celebrates the joy of cooking and sharing food, the architects sought to integrate elements of daily life into the design of Sawerdo. Like Wall’s images captured in lightboxes, Sawerdo embodies a lived-in aesthetic where scenes of life unfold, emphasizing the shared human experience.
Embracing Light and Space
Sawerdo’s interior design maximizes natural light, creating an inviting ambiance that encourages patrons to linger and engage. The space itself becomes a metaphorical “inhabited lightbox,” where moments of connection and interaction between patrons contribute to the vibrancy of the coffee shop.
A Symbol of Resilience and Unity
In essence, Sawerdo Coffee & Bakery transcends its role as a mere coffee shop, emerging as a symbol of resilience, unity, and the enduring power of community. As patrons gather around the hosting table, sharing stories, and forging connections, Sawerdo embodies the spirit of togetherness that continues to thrive despite the challenges of our times.
