In Sydney’s Darlinghurst, Mecca Coffee unveils its third café, a subterranean site on Foley Street, designed by the innovative Killing Matt Woods to mark the specialty coffee roaster’s 20th year. Extending below Oxford Street level, this unique space draws inspiration from Coober Pedy’s underground homes, creating a haven that feels as much a part of the earth as the iconic desert dwellings. This blend of innovative design and historical inspiration perfectly embodies the café’s underground appeal.
Two decades ago, Mecca Coffee started its journey in Sydney’s King Street. Today, it boasts a diverse business encompassing sourcing, roasting, wholesaling, and retailing. The Foley Street location joins the lineup alongside Alexandria and Paddington, nestled within the vibrant Oxford & Foley precinct.
For founder Paul Geshos, expanding wasn’t merely about growth but about deepening the café’s roots in its familiar inner-city neighborhoods. This guiding principle shaped the project brief to Killing Matt Woods, known for their work on Sydney hotspots like Grandfather’s and The Caterpillar Club.
A Nod to Mecca Coffee’s Subterranean History and Earth
By embracing the location’s cave-like aspects, the interior design pays homage to Coober Pedy’s underground digs. Utilizing convict-era bricks, swirling Sydney sandstone, and colonial-era Brickfield Hill pottery, the space echoes its historical roots. The underground design approach reminds us of Uchronia’s Café Shin Marais in Paris, integrating material history into a modern setting.
To see how history and art intersect, explore Yosemite’s Naturally Occurring ‘Firefall’ as captured by a skilled photographer.
At the heart of the café lies a striking Pilbara red marble counter. This raw-cut centerpiece, sourced from Western Australia’s ancient geological terrain, embodies the room’s weight and texture. Its grounding presence mirrors Studio Wok’s design at Milan’s Pan Deli, where the counter acts as the focal gathering point.
Supporting the earthy aesthetic, custom blackbutt joinery and richly textured stone floors harmonize with a moon-like dome light—crafted by Matt Woods and Ian Tran—offering a soft contrast to the robust materials.
A Design Rooted in Simplicity
“The key was to embrace the space’s natural character, turning its cave-like dimensions into an asset,” explains Matt Woods. Emulating Coober Pedy’s simplicity and authenticity, the design integrates seamlessly with the building’s historical environment.
The layout offers dual experiences: a quick espresso at the serving window or a leisurely filter coffee session with a book inside. Serving beverages brewed from beans sourced by Mecca Coffee’s roastery in Alexandria and pastries from Iggy’s in Bronte, the café strikes a perfect balance.
Geshos remarks, “Perfecting our hospitality ensures that while coffee draws patrons in, the ambiance encourages their return.” At Foley Street, the allure lies in the location’s unique subterranean charm, creating a timeless atmosphere below the bustling cityscape.
For more on transforming spaces, read about Danish Summerhouse by SAGA Space Architects, combining earthly comforts with space-age precision.
Source: urdesignmag.com
Frequently asked questions
What inspired the design of Mecca Coffee’s new café?
The design of Mecca Coffee’s new café is inspired by Coober Pedy’s underground homes, creating a space that feels as much a part of the earth as the iconic desert dwellings.
Where is Mecca Coffee’s new subterranean café located?
Mecca Coffee’s new subterranean café is located in Sydney’s Darlinghurst, extending below Oxford Street level on Foley Street.
What design elements are featured in the café’s interior?
The café’s interior features convict-era bricks, swirling Sydney sandstone, colonial-era Brickfield Hill pottery, a Pilbara red marble counter, custom blackbutt joinery, and richly textured stone floors.