For its second location in Captain Cook, HI, HiCO sought a space that could honor the raw landscape and cultural depth of the Big Island while supporting the café’s daily rhythm of community gathering. The design blends matte black tile reminiscent of cooled lava flows with bright copper accents echoing volcanic heat. Elements of age and permanence—like 500-year-old naturally felled ʻōhiʻa wood and patinated copper bars—ground the café in a sense of history, while contemporary detailing keeps the experience fresh and vibrant.
Beyond atmosphere, a key success of this project was the redesign of the barista workflow, which improved circulation, ergonomics, and efficiency behind the bar. These operational refinements allow the café to run with 40% fewer staff than the original location, demonstrating how design can enhance both experience and performance.
As Interior Designer and Project Manager, I guided the project from concept to completion—material selection, documentation, procurement, and contractor coordination—ensuring the aesthetic and operational goals came together seamlessly. The result is a space that feels both timeless and alive, reflecting the intensity, contrast, and community spirit at the heart of HiCO.
The copper patina process was a collaboration between Karina Lisa and Anne Catlin. Sheets of copper roofing were fabricated to form the copper counters. Rounds of corrosive chemicals were applied to age the copper to the desired dimensional effect. Final coats of sealant were added to halt the corrosive process.
The copper patina process was a collaboration between Karina Lisa and Anne Catlin. Sheets of copper roofing were fabricated to form the copper counters. Rounds of corrosive chemicals were applied to age the copper to the desired dimensional effect. Final coats of sealant were added to halt the corrosive process.
