Antonio Gemayel’s Masterful Design For Cafe Yaya: A Space Where Art And Architecture Coexist

When designer and architect Antonio Gemayel was approached to envision Cafe Yaya, the goal was clear—to create a space where architecture and art exist in harmony, seamlessly blending form, function, and aesthetics. The challenge? Transforming a narrow 40’ x 10’ footprint into an inviting, effortlessly elegant café that maximizes seating without sacrificing comfort.

“The challenge was to make the space feel expansive despite its constraints,” says Gemayel. “I wanted every detail to contribute to a sense of movement and continuity, so nothing felt rigid or confined.”

At the heart of the café’s design is a custom-built banquette perfectly aligned with the storefront window. Designed to accommodate up to 16 guests, the banquette serves as a flexible seating solution—whether for casual dining or larger gatherings. One end of the banquette transitions into an intimate booth, creating cozy nooks for small groups or solo visitors. On the opposite side, a wall bench adds seating for six, allowing for both one-on-one conversations and communal dining.

Gemayel introduced a signature design language of rounded forms to soften the space’s proportions and enhance its sense of fluidity. “The banquette is the soul of the café—it’s communal, flexible, and encourages interaction without feeling overcrowded,” he explains. This theme of smooth, curved edges extends across the custom millwork, shelving, bar, and kitchen counter, ensuring a cohesive, inviting atmosphere.

The material palette was carefully curated to achieve a delicate balance between warmth and durability. The orange maple seating adds a sense of vibrancy and warmth, contrasting beautifully with the industrial strength of stainless-steel kitchen elements. Above, a high-gloss lacquered ceiling reflects natural light, making the café feel open and airy despite its narrow footprint.

A Space Infused with Art

Art is not merely an addition to Cafe Yaya—it is an intrinsic part of the design. Works by renowned artists Raymond Pettibon and Christoph Mathes are thoughtfully placed throughout the space, enhancing its visual depth. A strategically positioned mirror reflects the artwork, ensuring it can be appreciated from multiple vantage points while also expanding the perceived dimensions of the room.

“Art was never an afterthought—it was embedded into the design from the beginning,” says Gemayel. “Every angle in the café offers a unique visual perspective, whether you’re engaging with the art directly or seeing its reflection.”

Gemayel also drew inspiration from New York’s architectural history. The flooring features a pattern reminiscent of old New York apartments, grounding the space in its local context. The

building’s landmarked facade was restored to its original blue, paying homage to its historical roots while giving Cafe Yaya a distinct street presence. Even the café’s bathroom is a nod to the art world, with a tile arrangement inspired by Ellsworth Kelly’s 1952 painting.

Designed for Experience

Beyond its aesthetics, Cafe Yaya was designed with a singular purpose—to enhance the guest experience. “It’s a place where people can gather, linger, and feel at ease,” Gemayel reflects. “I wanted it to be as much about the experience as the design itself.”

By meticulously balancing function, materiality, and artistic integration, Antonio Gemayel has created a space that is both timeless and effortlessly inviting. Cafe Yaya is more than just a café; it is a testament to the power of architecture and design to shape how we interact with space, art, and each other.

Written in partnership with Tedfuel