Atelier L Conical Kurasu Pop-Up Cafe Beijing Inspired by Drippers

Kurasu Pop-up by Atelier L is a 28-square-metre temporary cafe in Beijing’s Taikoo Li Sanlitun for the Japanese roaster Kurasu.

The pavilion is formed by two curved stainless-steel cones inspired by the geometry of a pour-over coffee dripper.

With diffuse reflections that mirror street lamps, trees and pedestrians, the kiosk reads as both a brand-forward counter and a sculptural piece in the urban fabric.

Built in just two months, the project explores how a small footprint can deliver performance, weather resilience and cultural storytelling.

Design concept and sculptural form

The cones establish a bold presence that folds into the street.

The metal skin creates a shifting image depending on lighting and weather.

Inside, the large cone hosts the main bar beneath an illuminated ceiling.

The smaller cone forms a funnel-shaped standing bar with a circular pivot window that frames tree views.

Form, materials and spatial logic

The interior palette pairs textured beige paint in the larger volume with aluminium panels printed with a wood-grain texture in the smaller.

This combination produces warmth and durability for a temporary structure.

The bar is fronted by timber slats and topped in stainless steel.

Wooden shelving and a rear steel door are obscured by traditional Japanese noren curtains.

The two cones rest on a low rectangular metal plinth filled with gravel and boulders.

The project includes exterior tables and an attached bench for passersby.

Urban context, reflections and visitor experience

Set amid a landscape of boxy pop-ups and luxury flagships, Atelier L’s reflective metal façades are designed to stand out.

The diffuse reflections capture street lighting, foliage and passersby, reinforcing the site’s branding while integrating into the urban cadence.

The circular pivot window of the smaller cone and the elevated bar create moments of interaction for customers and onlookers.

This setup invites lingering and social exchange.

Operational geometry

• Dual service zones: a main coffee bar under the larger cone and a funnel-shaped standing bar under the smaller cone
• Outdoor tables and bench extending the experience to the street
• Reflective surfaces that animate with weather and lighting

Construction, weather resistance and performance

Designers prioritized a two-month assembly, balancing sculptural form with structural robustness.

The modules are supported on a plinth with gravel and boulders.

The lighting and reflective surfaces remain visible under Beijing winter snow.

Material choices favor durability and easy construction.

Aluminium panels with wood-grain finishes provide warmth.

Stainless steel skins deliver diffuse reflections rather than glare.

The rear entry uses a steel door masked by noren for cultural nuance.

Cultural references and Atelier L’s practice

The Kurasu Pop-up embodies Atelier L’s interest in cross-cultural cues, from coffee-dripper geometry to paper-folding traditions.

The studio is based in Guangzhou after its New York origins (founded 2019).

Studio identity

Founders Dake Li and Nan Lei describe the project as a synthesis of sculptural form, practical operation and environmental responsiveness.

Snow events highlight the reflective surfaces and warm interior light.

Key takeaways for architects and engineers

This micro-architecture case study shows how ephemeral spaces can deliver brand immersion and urban engagement in a compact footprint.

By pairing a bold sculptural grammar with weather-aware detailing, Kurasu Pop-up demonstrates how architectural craft can support a storefront.

It also enhances the urban street experience.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Atelier L models conical cafe pop-up in Beijing on coffee drippers