This former bookshop has been transformed into a coffee take-away offering breakfast, lunch and cakes. Situated in the eastern part of Amsterdam opposite of the “Onze Lieve Vrouwen Gasthuis” hospital, Roost plays a central role in catering to the neighbouring residents, nurses and passers-by. All of the products sold in Roost are homemade by the owner, from soup, salads, croissants and sourdough buns to all the cakes. Specialty coffees are prepared with either a state-of-art espresso machine, or according to various “slow-coffee” methods according to the customer’s order.

The shop was completely stripped to its bare essentials revealing the original concrete structure and then built from the ground up to create a welcoming cozy venue. Central in the lay-out is the counter and open kitchen where customers can see first-hand the preparation of all the products sold in Roost.

The flooring follows the structure of the building in black, white and grey tiles. The oak wall panels with the white powder coated metal shelves were tailor made for Roost. The countertop was made using boat deck techniques. In the middle of the shop is a cube covered in Swedish blue steel which contains the toilets and storage space. The window seats make for intimate spots and also functions as extra storage and product display.

Designed by Buroblasé Loeff
Photography by Jos Kraaijeveld