Situated in the vibrant core of Hazratganj, Coffee Dude by Studio Akar Prakar is a carefully crafted café that merges Lucknow’s rich architectural legacy with the essence of a modern coffee shop culture. Spanning 1150 sqft, the space functions both as a lively social hub and a serene creative retreat. The design draws inspiration from Lucknow’s iconic arches—found in historic gateways, Imambaras, and colonial buildings—and reimagines them with a modern, minimalist approach. These arches are more than decorative elements; they serve as a symbolic link to the city’s architectural and cultural heritage.

This Modern Coffee Shop Brings Creativity And Culture Under One Roof | Studio Akar Prakar

A Narrative Through Architecture

At the center of the café stands a distinctive asymmetrical arch that divides the space into two distinct zones. One side features an open, casual seating area designed for groups and easy conversation, while the other offers a cozy, semi-private environment ideal for work, reading, or quiet meetings.

This intentional asymmetry reflects Lucknow’s layered identity, where tradition and modernity coexist. The arch both separates and connects, inviting guests to experience the café’s dynamic yet intimate atmosphere.

Materials and Texture

The interior employs a clean, raw material palette that resonates with the local context. The front counter is adorned with green textured tiles, evoking the lush gardens and courtyards of Lucknow, especially vibrant during the monsoon. Adjacent to the central arch, a custom open shelf acts as a partition and visual screen, decorated with plants and curated objects to soften the space and enhance functionality.

Greenery and Ambiance

Indoor plants are thoughtfully positioned throughout, infusing nature into the café to create a grounded, breathable environment. Combined with warm lighting and a calm color scheme, this natural element fosters a cozy, work-friendly space that encourages long conversations and relaxed afternoons.

Art as a Storytelling Medium

Three murals enrich the café’s interior narrative:

• The first, in the open seating area, depicts confident modern women enjoying cold brews against a backdrop reminiscent of the Gomti Riverfront bridge, celebrating the bold, graceful new-age Nawabi spirit.

• The second, located in the semi-private arched space above long seating, captures the quiet artistry of everyday Lucknow. Moreover, it evokes the aroma of fresh coffee and moments of creative pause, honoring the city’s cultural soul.
• The third artwork introduces a bohemian aesthetic with free-spirited visuals and earthy tones, adding an eclectic layer to the café’s multidimensional character.

A Space Deeply Rooted in Lucknow

Coffee Dude embraces subtle elegance—in the curve of an arch, the texture of a tile, or the quiet moments beneath a mural. The café embodies Lucknow’s unique rhythm by blending old-world charm with contemporary energy. As a result, it creates a welcoming space for both comfort and creativity.

Whether you drop in for a quick coffee or settle in for hours with a book or laptop, Coffee Dude offers an experience that feels timeless, local, and deeply personal.

Fact File

Designed by: Studio Akar Prakar

Project Type: Restaurant/Bar/Cafe

Project Name: The Coffee Dude Cafe

Location: Hazratganj, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India

Year Built: 2025

Duration of the project: 2 Months

Project Size: 1150.00 Sq.ft

Project Cost: 18 Lakhs

Principal Architect: Ar. Naman Jain

Photograph Courtesy: rolldatfilm & Saumya Singh

Firm’s Website Link: Studio Akar Prakar

Firm’s Instagram Link: Studio Akar Prakar

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