A waterfront café renewal at Domain Mall, Yau Tong. With a 2,400 sqft footprint and prime sea views of Victoria Harbour, the project transformed an ageing freestanding kiosk into a modern F&B destination. Balancing indoor dining with a newly refreshed outdoor terrace, the design emphasises comfort, durability, and clear zoning.
Upgrades included weather-resistant finishes, outdoor cooling fans, shading elements, and strict smoke-free policies—creating a cleaner, more relaxing environment for visitors. Despite weather delays, the project was completed in 3 months, delivering a refreshed gathering spot at the mall’s centrepiece.
項目細節
工程期
~3 months
工程地點
Domian Mall, Hong Kong
主要材質與細節
Outdoor cooling fans
Sunshades
Smoke-free terrace
Weather-resistant finishes
面積
2400 sqft.
工程年份
2023

CONCEPT & DESIGN INTENT
The renewal of the Grove Café at Domain Mall was envisioned as a seaside retreat in the middle of a bustling retail hub. The intent was to refresh a deteriorated standalone structure and transform it into a welcoming café that maximises the site’s panoramic harbour views. By combining a fresh, smoke-free atmosphere with functional outdoor enhancements, the project sought to elevate the customer’s lifestyle experience.
SPATIAL STRATEGY / PLANNING LOGIC
The café was carefully re-planned to balance indoor service functions (kitchen, counters, dining) with a spacious outdoor terrace. The flow was designed to allow visitors to move naturally from the central mall into an open café environment, with a clear separation between operational areas and customer seating. Outdoor elements, such as umbrellas and cooling devices, were strategically placed to extend usability across various seasons.
項目圖集
MATERIALITY & DETAILING
Given the exposure to harsh weather—including storms and direct sea breezes—durable, weather-resistant materials were essential.
Exterior finishes were reinforced, and waterproofing and drainage systems were upgraded. Additionally, signage was designed for longevity in outdoor conditions. Interiors were kept light and clean, complementing the sea view, while outdoor fixtures such as cooling fans and shading canopies were detailed for both comfort and resilience.


PROJECT GOALS & OUTCOMES
The goal was not only a renovation but also a cultural reset for the café. Previously, the outdoor zone was heavily used for smoking, undermining the customer experience. Following the renovation, with strict non-smoking rules, the removal of ashtray bins, and improved air circulation, the café successfully repositioned itself as a healthy and family-friendly destination. Completed within three months, despite weather disruptions, the outcome is a revitalized community café that capitalizes on its iconic location.
COLLABORATION & CONSTRAINTS
This project faced unique challenges: the aging standalone structure required extensive repair; weather delays—including storms—interrupted the program; and operational concerns, such as waterproofing, ventilation, and service resilience, had to be carefully resolved. Close coordination with the mall management enabled smooth policy alignment (e.g., smoking bans) and ensured that the outcome reflected both client expectations and tenant operational needs.














