In Toronto, Canada, Misc Coffee by StudioAC shows how standard industrial materials can create a distinctive and efficient interior. The design uses only a few materials to define the space, focusing on geometry, light, and transparency to make a lasting impression.

Translucent FRP as a Key Material

The café features translucent green Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP), a material usually found in infrastructure and utility projects. Here, it appears as both wall and canopy cladding. The panels filter light, add colour, and introduce texture while remaining durable and easy to maintain.

A matching FRP canopy hangs above the bar, supported by a visible grid of Unistrut channels. These industrial elements share a geometric logic, creating a layered effect that plays with repetition and transparency. The combination defines the space without the need for decorative finishes.

Clear Geometry and Flow

At the centre, a triangular bar shapes the layout and directs movement through the café. This form improves circulation and supports daily operations while framing views of the FRP panels.

The use of stainless steel countertops and shelving adds reflection and contrast. As daylight changes, the green tones of the FRP shift subtly, giving the interior a dynamic quality throughout the day.

Simple Materials, Strong Identity

StudioAC’s approach focuses on using standard materials in new ways. The design avoids unnecessary finishes and relies instead on the interaction of light, structure, and texture. This method reduces waste and simplifies construction, supporting a more efficient and sustainable approach to design.

By adapting industrial materials for a hospitality setting, Misc Coffee demonstrates how everyday products can take on a new aesthetic role. The project offers a practical example of resourceful material use that can inspire architects and interior designers working on small commercial spaces.

Source: StudioAC via V2com
Photography: Scott Walsh