Gilded Timber

The Concept

Gilded Timber was envisioned as an upscale rustic café where earthy materials meet refined detailing. Designed as both a neighborhood gathering place and a destination spot, the café blends lush comfort with natural character, creating an atmosphere that feels both grounding and elevated.

Interior of a modern dining or cafe area with round wooden tables, wooden and wicker chairs, a large woven pendant light, and large windows showing a mountain view.
Living room with a brown sofa, a black marble coffee table with gold decorative objects, a small round side table with books and a gold sculpture, green cactus plants on the wall, a white textured rug, and a large woven pendant light.

The Solution

At the heart of the café is a large-scale terrazzo feature wall that frames the bar. The terrazzo’s natural fragments and metallic flecks add richness, serving as both a functional and aesthetic anchor. Rustic timber beams, reclaimed oak flooring, and woven leather seating add warmth and texture, while lush greenery softens the harder materials. Lighting combines industrial fixtures with warm brass accents, casting a glow that highlights the interplay of rough and refined.

Key Features

  • Striking terrazzo feature wall as the café’s focal point

  • Reclaimed oak floors arranged in a wide plank pattern for rustic charm

  • Mixture of seating: woven leather chairs, plush banquettes, and communal timber tables

  • Layered greenery throughout for lush softness and natural contrast

  • Rustic timber ceiling beams paired with brass-accented industrial lighting

  • Decor that fuses natural textures with refined metallic details

The Challenge

The goal was to create a café that celebrates rustic authenticity while maintaining an upscale, curated feel. The challenge was to integrate raw, natural elements like wood and stone with polished finishes and modern detailing, ensuring the café appeals to both casual visitors and design-conscious guests.

Living room with a large woven pendant light, a brown sofa with a striped pillow, a shaggy white rug, round coffee tables, and greenery in the background with tall cacti. There is a tall window letting in natural light.
Interior of a modern dining area with a brick accent wall, floating shelves with decorative items, and woven pendant lights. There are tables and chairs in the foreground, with large windows showing a scenic outdoor view.

The Takeaway

Gilded Timber illustrates how Minima approaches boutique hospitality spaces by blending raw textures with refined finishes to create interiors that are both inviting and unforgettable. This café concept demonstrates how design can strike a balance between rustic authenticity and upscale sophistication.