triangular skylights pierce café's concrete volumes by ASWA in thailand

geometric volumes and voids define DIFF Coffee Roasters’ design

Located in Phitsanulok, Thailand, DIFF Coffee Roasters consists of two cubic volumes—one gray and one black—connected by a triangular bridge. The café’s design by ASWA (Architectural Studio of Work – Aholic) incorporates an existing large tree, integrating natural elements into the spatial arrangement and providing shaded outdoor seating. The material palette includes smooth concrete, wood, and glass, reinforcing a minimalist design approach.

all images by Soopakorn Srisakul, courtesy of ASWA (Architectural Studio of Work – Aholic)

ASWA links café’s geometric volumes with triangular bridge

The larger gray volume, positioned at the forefront, features a series of triangular openings that allow light to filter through, creating shifting patterns within the space. DIFF Coffee Roasters’ interior is defined by a high-ceilinged atrium, where triangular skylights emphasize verticality and openness. 

The smaller black cube, housing the bar, contrasts with the main café through square openings and distinct voids that shape the lighting and spatial experience. The triangular bridge linking the two structures establishes a visual and functional connection, enhancing circulation between spaces. The overall composition by ASWA architectural studio balances geometric forms, material contrasts, and natural integration, creating a setting that encourages interaction and relaxation.

ASWA integrates geometric forms with natural elements in this Phitsanulok café

the café’s design incorporates an existing tree, providing shaded outdoor seating

smooth concrete, wood, and glass define the minimalist material palette

the existing tree integrates with the built environment

shifting light patterns enhance the dynamic spatial experience

a high-ceilinged atrium inside the gray cube emphasizes openness

triangular skylights introduce vertical light into the café’s interior

the design balances material contrasts between concrete, wood, and glass

light and shadow interact across surfaces, adding depth to the space

a dynamic interplay of forms, light, and nature defines the experience

geometric voids shape the café’s interior ambiance

project info:

name: DIFF Coffee Roasters
architects: ASWA (Architectural Studio of Work – Aholic) | @aswa_bangkok

design team: Phuttipan Aswakool, Chotiros Techamongklapiwat, Prassapol Sanguanwattanaraksa, Napasorn Luengkiattikhun, Visarut Vongjirasak

location: Phitsaulok, Thailand

area: 800 sqm

photographer: Soopakorn Srisakul

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom