DDN 293: Anima Industriale



Three authentic copper kettles from a former brewery are the main stars of the Kettles Café Bistro Bar in Mriehel, Malta. A project by DAAA Haus.

Kettles Café Bistro Bar is the new café recently opened in the former Farsons Brewery in the town of Mriehel (Malta), now a real community and co-working center as well as an entertainment and dining destination thanks to its spaces. DAAA Haus’ project focused on respecting the industrial character of the place and the building, where interventions were aimed at enhancing some of the original elements, including the old copper kettles, which have a remarkable scenic impact, immersed in an atmosphere of rough textures and deep tones. Around these spectacular kettles, the architectural firm designed a series of curved benches made of natural dark woods and fabrics, and juxtaposed classic chairs by Ton with woven cane backs perfectly matching in shape and color. The central kettle was also embellished with planters with real plants. Concrete walls and floors together with hexagonal mosaic floors in the bar area, and a color palette of strong and bold tones accompany the decision to preserve the existing copper and brass ceiling pipes.

Facing the main entrance, the main bar counter has a front clad in Calacatta marble, in contrast to the ‘rough’ air that characterizes the whole place.

Founded in 2009 by Keith Pillow, DAAA Haus is a multidisciplinary architecture and design practice based in Malta, Milan and Ragusa, where the talents of more than 30 young professionals of diverse origins come together from Malta, Italy, Serbia, Ireland, India, Poland, Tunisia. A taste for exploring different tools, materials, technologies, techniques and strategies has given rise to a completely original language, characterized by functional, innovative and appealing design.

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