A first look inside Archives of Us, a secret café hidden in Downtown LA

Archives of Us is a contemporary café opening in Downtown LA boasting crisp interiors by Studio/ JIALUN XIONG who crafted a caffeinated sanctuary away from the city rush

Service counter
(Image credit: Yerin Mok)

‘I wanted to design a retreat away from the city’s constant movement’, shared Jialun Xiong, founder of a multidisciplinary design studio Studio/ JIALUN XIONG. This was in reflection of her recently completed interior for Archives of Us, a new secret coffee shop hidden in downtown LA.

Xiong’s main focus of work is through the deep exploration of the idea of duality within spaces, and also within furnishings, lighting and objects. Archives of Us is XIong’s realisation of this.

Inside Archives of Us, a café with an alternative coffee culture vibe

Jialun and Nick

(Image credit: Yerin Mok)

The 2.500 sq. ft café is situated above the city, accessible through a polished lift that transports visitors to its suspended level. When the doors open, the focal point is linear, directed through the crisp lines of custom furnishings and sleek finishings.

The interior is a creative display of playful materiality from contrasting dark ash wood, with plush cream leather. The smooth concrete flooring nods to its urban setting, while reflecting the warming glows of the lighting.

Entrance lounge groups

(Image credit: Yerin Mok)

The art of making a cup of coffee is ritualistic, which Xiong wanted to replicate within the space, carefully crafting a café which is a peaceful retreat away from the bustling Los Angeles traffic.

Pastry counter overlook the dining area

(Image credit: Yerin Mok)

She worked closely with Archives of Us founder Nick Kim, who wanted a departure from the constant ‘newness’ of coffee shops with ever-changing menus and elaborate drinks. ‘What drew me to Xiong’s work was her ability to approach materiality and functionality with precision, while also crafting a layered, sensory experience—something I truly value,’ shared Kim.

Window counter seating

(Image credit: Yerin Mok)

For Xiong the objective was simple: to create a refined and minimalistic coffee experience which is different from what is on offer within the area. The design’s feel is developed from a monochromatic material palette to evoke a sense of calmness while also providing an element of intrigue.

8_Finish Details

(Image credit: Yerin Mok)

Brushed metals catch glimmers of light and reflect it throughout the space. Creamy upholstery adds a softness against the concrete flooring and black ash wood. The furnishings include custom chairs, counter stools, tables, loveseats, and lounge seating from Xiong’s ‘Kaleidoscope’ and ‘Building Blocks’ collections, nodding towards museum-like design codes found within contemporary exhibition spaces.

Main lounge area

(Image credit: Yerin Mok)

Through textures Xiong creates a visually tactile interior which steps away from the more commonly used minimalist interior style found within industrial spaces. Xiong shared, ‘ At first, people might feel that the environment is too exposed and unsettling, but as they spend more time in the space, they may begin to appreciate the moment of stillness and reflection it offers—where every element corresponds, contrasts, and reveals something new…This allows us to craft a space where people can savour every cup while feeling deeply connected to themselves, encouraging a quieter, more reflective environment, much like in a library.’

archivesofus.com
jialunxiong.com

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Staff Writer

Tianna Williams is Wallpaper*s staff writer. Before joining the team in 2023, she contributed to BBC Wales, SurfGirl Magazine, Parisian Vibe, The Rakish Gent, and Country Life, with work spanning from social media content creation to editorial. When she isn’t writing extensively across varying content pillars ranging from design, and architecture to travel, and art, she also helps put together the daily newsletter. She enjoys speaking to emerging artists, designers, and architects, writing about gorgeously designed houses and restaurants, and day-dreaming about her next travel destination.