Eli is a cozy city coffee shop located in the heart of Kyiv, near the State Circus Hall. It is designed as a special place for coffee lovers, where both locals and tourists can enjoy a warm and intimate 20-minute break.

Context

The interior is a complete transformation of a previous venue: the flooring was replaced, several walls were removed, and new electrical systems, plumbing, equipment, and other elements were installed.
The only features preserved were the exposed brick walls with original engravings from a 1970s concrete products factory and the ceiling made of raw concrete slabs left without additional finishes. These elements add authenticity and highlight the connection to the building’s history and its urban context.

Design

One of the key elements of the concept is the café’s mascot — the owners’ dog named Eli. Initially simply a beloved pet, he jokingly became the “director,” and this playful idea eventually evolved into a full communication strategy: Eli is the director of the coffee shop.
The interior color palette subtly references his coat, adding an extra symbolic layer to the design.

The space accommodates ten seats: eight at tables and two at a high counter near the entrance. During the warm season, three outdoor tables are added, increasing the total capacity to sixteen.

The central element of the layout is the island — the place where the main “characters” of the café live: the barista, the coffee machine, the grinder, and the display. The design emphasizes this core zone with spatial brick masonry and accent lighting; the island is envisioned as the first visual focal point that greets guests.

All other interior elements are designed to support this composition without competing with the main accent.
The brick introduces a light historical context, especially in combination with the preserved 1970s wall blocks with their characteristic imprint. Polished metal details add a contemporary contrast, completing the atmosphere.

Community

The project aims to contribute to Kyiv’s coffee community, which values quality coffee within a thoughtfully crafted space. Eli is not just a café — it is a place for meetings, conversations, and small everyday moments that create a sense of belonging.