inspirit cafe

[solo project]

Inspirit Café was created to fill a gap in Auckland’s café scene by providing a comfortable, purpose-built space for students to study or work remotely. With many existing venues being too small or not suited for extended productivity, Inspirit offers an environment designed to support focus and motivation.

The name "Inspirit" reflects the café’s mission to uplift students and help them stay productive as they pursue their goals.

[skills used]

Branding
Web Design
Researcher
Interior Design
Ergonomic Design

[overview]

challenge

While students are drawn to cafés for their relaxed ambiance, creative atmosphere, and convenient access to snacks, Wi-Fi, and power outlets, many also struggle feeling unwelcome during extended stays, and the lack of quiet, distraction-free spaces. These insights, gathered through student interviews, highlighted the need for a purpose-built café that supports focus, comfort, and productivity.

approach

My initial approach to this project involved researching cafes that position themselves as ‘study cafes.’ I focused primarily on international examples from countries like Korea, Japan, and Indonesia, where study cafes are both common and popular. This research examined their key features and services, interior design, and websites to identify successful strategies and elements that could inform my own design.

[website design]

desktop website

mobile website

[branding]

[interior design]

first floor - main area

second floor - quiet area

private space

individual space #01

individual space #02

main area [rendered]

quiet area [rendered]

[promotions]

instagram

tiktok

[research]

So, why do students enjoy working/studying in cafes in the first place?

Improved focus:

The gentle background noise and change of scenery help some students concentrate better.

Inviting ambiance:

The warm, lively atmosphere feels more relaxed than traditional study spaces.

Boosts creativity:

A new environment can stimulate fresh ideas and creative thinking.

Convenience:

Easy access to snacks, drinks, unlimited Wi-Fi, and power outlets supports longer study sessions.

Alternative to libraries:

Some students find libraries too quiet, restrictive, or uninspiring.

Although, what prevents students from choosing alternative study spaces like home or the library?

home:

Excessive comfort: The relaxed environment at home can make it difficult to stay focused and motivated.
Lack of variety: Being in the same space every day can lead to mental fatigue, prompting a need for a change of scenery.
Social energy: Extroverted students often gain energy from being around others and may feel more motivated in public spaces.
Distractions: Home environments can be full of distractions, from digital temptations to household responsibilities.
Chaotic environments: In some cases, the home may be noisy or lack a quiet, dedicated workspace, making it hard to concentrate.

library:

Overly quiet: The silence can feel uncomfortable or stifling for some, making it harder to concentrate.
Uncomfortable furniture: Seating and study setups are often not ergonomically designed for long periods of use.
Distractions on lower levels: Noise from children or group activities on certain floors can be disruptive.
Limited availability: Libraries can get crowded, with few seats available during peak hours.
Social discomfort: Being in close proximity to others or feeling observed can be distracting.
Restricted hours: Early closing times don’t always align with students’ preferred study schedules.

Through a series of student interviews, I identified key challenges and barriers that students commonly face when studying or working in a cafe:

Loud atmosphere: Background noise, music, and conversations can make it difficult for some to concentrate.
Feeling unwelcome: Students may feel like they’re occupying space for too long, potentially disrupting the café’s regular business flow.
Need for silence: Some individuals require a quiet, distraction-free environment to focus effectively, which typical cafés don't provide.

[approach]

key services:

Free, unlimited Wi-Fi: Ensures seamless connectivity for extended work or study sessions.
Online booking for private spaces: Allows users to reserve quiet, dedicated areas in advance.
Individual desk lamps: Provides adequate lighting for focused tasks, enhancing comfort.
Accessible charging ports: Ensures that devices can remain powered throughout the day.

key areas:

Community area: A casual, open space that fosters connection and a sense of belonging among students.
Group spaces: Designed for collaborative work such as meetings, group projects, or tutoring sessions.
Quiet area: A low-noise zone for individual focus and deep work.
Private spaces: Enclosed or semi-private areas for those who need minimal distractions and maximum concentration.

I then shifted my focus to the operational aspects of running a cafe, researching the essential equipment and resources required to support daily operations effectively.

essential equipment:

Industrial coffee grideners
Industrial blenders
Espresso machine
Fridge & Freezers
Microwave/Oven
Food cabinets

Ice maker
Pitch rinsers
Dishwasher
Toaster
Sandwich press

Lastly, to support the success of the business, I explored strategies for promoting the café. Social media emerged as the most feasible and effective channel, given that my target demographic, students, are highly active on these platforms. The most commonly used apps among this audience including: instagram and tiktok.

[target demographic]

This project aims to engage with: Students in Senior Year of High School up until University Students.

Ages: 16 - 27 years old.

(based on interviews)