This article is featured in Volume 34, Issue No. 3 of Perspective magazine, to purchase a copy click here.
FADA was approached by Nine Squared Co-Founders, Sean O’Donnell and Neil Cole and tasked with developing a new interior language for the cafe’s Queen Street, Belfast location.
From the outset, it was evident that a holistic design approach was required; encompassing interiors, branding, FF&E, and OS&E. To shape the direction, FADA led a feasibility study and in-depth project workshop exercise, helping to define both the functional needs and aesthetic ambitions of the cafe. With a near blank canvas to begin with, this foundational process was essential.
Drawing inspiration from Nine Squared’s monochromatic brand palette and the industrial heritage of the Print Works building, FADA crafted a design narrative rooted in context. The vision was to reflect the elevated, bold, and playful personalities of the co-founders while honouring The Printwork building’s history and character.
Utilising the architectural shell renovated by Angus Properties, FADA developed multiple spatial layouts considering workflow, seating arrangements, natural light, and sight-lines. A key feature emerged in the form of a striking central counter, finished in rich walnut and topped with a concrete-effect stone. The counter’s positioning and equipment layout were meticulously planned in collaboration with co-founder and coffee enthusiast, Sean O’Donnell, to streamline barista workflow and improve peak-time efficiency.
Recognising the social importance of “the coffee shot” for both the business owners, customers and guest coffee roasters, FADA designed a visual focal point behind the custom La Marzocco machine, opting for an eclectic, contemporary, whimsical tile installation from Dutch tiling brand Palet. The playful tile work offers a subtle, visual echo of the graffiti in the rear courtyard, setting the tone for a youthful and expressive space.
To enhance texture and shadows, FADA applied a plaster-effect paint finish from Copenhagen based paint brand, Detale CPH, in both ‘Cava’ and ‘Charcoal’. These tones aligned seamlessly with the brand palette and mirrored the industrial texture of the surrounding red-brick Printwork’s building’s architecture.
Co-founder, Neil Cole, expressed a vision for the space to transition fluidly from daytime cafe to evening event venue for hospitality and cultural soirees. Lighting was designed accordingly, with a layered approach combining ribbed, opal glass and metallic pendants from New Works, portable &Tradition aluminium mushroom lamps, circular, glass block wall sconces, and warm white LED strips to create a sultry, versatile and ambient setting.
Every element of joinery was custom-designed down to the millimetre by FADA to optimise space and capacity. Influenced by Japanese craftsmanship, the bench seating is linear in form, sitting in juxtaposition with the curved, organically shaped banquettes. A combination of ochre toned plush velvet and boucle fabrics were chosen for the banquettes, whilst a buttery, deep chocolate durable leatherette was chosen for the bench seating to accommodate speedier user experiences, such as the ‘grab and go city worker’ customer. In that respect, balancing comfort and durability was key.
A sleek walnut timber finish was chosen for the banquette and bench frames to mirror the cafe counter and panelling. Seating was placed atop monolithic, barrel seat bases to raise the seating off the floor so the joinery didn’t feel clunky, but most importantly, so the polished concrete floor with expressive aggregate remained a visible feature.
A standout design element is the criss-cross Italian glass block screen framed in walnut and softly backlit. Positioned between the stairwell and café, it serves as both a sculptural element and a subtle room divide, hinting at a future rooftop terrace (fingers crossed).
FADA’s commitment to local collaboration was pivotal to the project. Recognising a need to refresh the brand, FADA brought in Allies, a new creative studio based within the Print Works, to align branding, illustration, signage, and way finding with the interior concept. A refined visual identity and playful copywriting helped reinforce Nine Squared’s youthful personality.
Through the seamless integration of strategy, branding, and interior design, Nine Squared has transformed Queen Street, reinvigorating a once-overlooked part of Belfast. The result is a warm, moody, and vibrant space that brings together coffee culture, service, community, and design together in a meaningful and impactful way.
This article is featured in Volume 34, Issue No. 3 of Perspective magazine, to purchase a copy click here.
Client: Nine Squared Coffee
Lead Fit Out Designer: FADA
Fit Out Contractor: SBM Contracts
Main Contractor (for the Printworks build): Angus Properties Ltd.
Architect: Paul Elliott Architect ARB (In house Architect for Angus Properties)
Civil & Structural: Design ID
Photography: Elyse Kennedy
Brand Refresh: Allies
Renders: Cyanotype Media
FF&E Supplier: Maven
