In an effort to reestablish public spaces as centers of social—as well as commercial—exchange, an Austrian design team conceived of a mobile kitchen that literally stops busy urbanites in their tracks.
In “the olden days,” the town square or marketplace was not only a commercial space but also communal gathering spot, where neighbors and traders exchanged news over a drink or a meal. Mobile Hospitality, a project by Anna Rosinke and Maciej Chmara, seeks to resurrect this concept of public space as community center, through a combination of delectable design and delicious food. Wheeling their pop-up cafe to various locals throughout Austria, the design duo invited curious passersby to shed a bit of modern anonymity by engaging in a spontaneous, communal interaction over a shared repast.
Photographs courtesy of Chmara Rosinke.
Above: Mobile Hospitality’s simple scheme has a deliberate DIY feel, designed to make it accessible and inviting.
Above: Design on the go: Mobile Hospitality completely folds into two compact wheelbarrow-like units.
Above: Fully unfolded, the pop-up cafe provides a full-fledged kitchen with ample dining area.
Above: Simplicity in form and function: the clean lines and surfaces of the kitchen are both visually appealing and practical.
Above: Handy racks and hooks can be used for easy storage. There’s even a spot for fresh herbs.
Above: Mobile Hospitality on location. For custom-order information, contact Chmara.Rosinke.
Have a Question or Comment About This Post?
Join the conversation