The Relationship between Bar Placement and Facade Design in Yogyakarta’s Small-to-Medium Coffee Shops

Abstract

The rapid proliferation of coffee shops in Yogyakarta has driven the development of unique architectural concepts that balance functional requirements with brand identity. Two influential components in this evolution are the coffee bar and the facade, which collectively shape customer perception and experience. This study investigates the spatial relationship between bar placement and facade layering in small-to-medium-sized coffee shops. Adopting a qualitative approach, the research utilized field observations and analytical techniques—including exploded axonometric diagrams—to examine 33 establishments within Yogyakarta’s university districts. The findings indicate that most facades consist of two to four layers, frequently employing transparent materials to maintain visual connectivity between the exterior and the interior. Results show that the bar is typically positioned in proximity to the facade or aligned directly with the entrance, establishing it as the primary visual and functional focal point. This visibility strategy emphasizes the bar’s dual role in service orientation—facilitating both dine-in and takeaway models—and in reinforcing a recognizable brand image. Ultimately, the study highlights how the bar defines spatial identity, mediated by facades that allow passersby to observe internal activities and craftsmanship from the street.