Child Studio creates the iconic pink Humble Pizza Café in London. Inspired by the ‘Formica cafes’, which first started appearing in London’s West End in the 50s and were established by Italian immigrant families. “Formica Cafes” at those times had a modern interior design paired with pastel colors. Those cafes were the beginning of introducing the ‘café culture’ to London. This inspired the London based ‘Child Studio’; established by Chiech Huang and Alexey Kostikov, to create Humble Pizza Café in such a manner on the iconic King’s Road.

The unique location ‘King’s Road’, considered as an iconic site for London’s creative scene, inspired the designers. Besides, British fashion, music, and pop culture movements of the 20^th century are what comprises the neighborhood. ‘Humble’ was designed to be part of the unique neighborhood, combining nostalgia and modernism.

‘Child Studio’ worked with a participatory design approach to create a whole experience based on the hospitality team menu concept. Everyone was involved in the project including chiefs, café team and designers who worked closely and as a result, created authentic concept and space.

Design

Child Studio designers reached the Formica factory in order to learn more about their history. The café’s internal walls are cladded by candy pink Formica that is found also on the counter fronts and tabletops as well. They aimed to recreate ‘Linen’ like mid-century pattern and also introduce a new modern color.

The designers used Cherry wood shelves and neon signage to connect the place to the artistic image of the past that inspired the design. All the lighting pieces used in the café are by mid-century European designers Poul Henningsen, Jacques Biny and Luigi Massoni. That definitely served the whole mid-century nostalgic idea and gave the place a touch from the past.

Understanding the value of sustainabilty and totally believing that sustainable environment always lasts and stands throughout ages. The materials used in the interior design sourcing was considered as well as other sustainable aspects.

Humble Pizza Cafe established itself as a very attractive destination for visitors, art lovers, bloggers, and social media influencers. They all come to explore the unique design and extraordinary architectural experience. The designers created a place that will be here for many coming years. Definitely, the place should be on everyone’s list to visit and to enjoy their vegan meals.