Common Man Coffee Roasters

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

A successful café brand in Singapore, renowned for the quality of its coffee and warm hospitality, approached us to design their first outpost in neighbouring Kuala Lumpur. Their philosophy is simple yet distinctive: to serve excellent coffee and food in convivial, stylish surroundings that feel welcoming to all. Our design needed to capture this ethos while giving the new café its own identity rooted in the city.

We drew inspiration from the elegance of classic 1930s cafés while weaving in subtle references to its Southeast Asian context. The result is a space that feels both timeless and contemporary, with layered details that connect to local culture and materials. Timber, rattan, and brass feature prominently throughout, lending a tactile richness and warmth that grounds the interior.

Seating was carefully considered to reflect the varied ways in which customers experience the café. Long benches and communal tables encourage shared meals and social connection, while banquette seating offers a more intimate setting. Flexible arrangements allow guests to grab a quick coffee on the go, meet friends for lunch, or spend an afternoon lingering over food and conversation.

The design celebrates both the café’s heritage and its new home in Kuala Lumpur, creating an environment that feels instantly familiar yet refreshingly original — a natural extension of the brand’s commitment to quality and conviviality.