How a Colombian Café Combines Kids’ Reading and Adult Coffee Culture

Ever walked into a café and wished there was a quiet corner for your kids to read while you enjoyed a proper cup? Or maybe you're just tired of places where children run wild and coffee comes second? A 2015 project in Medellín, Colombia, solves both problems in one clever design—blending a kid-friendly book nook with an inviting lounge for grown-ups who care about good coffee and great conversation.

In a compact 120-square-meter space, Colombian architecture firm PLASMA NODO designed 9¾, a café and bookstore where children have a playful reading area and adults enjoy a cozy, well-furnished lounge—all under one roof, with top-grade Colombian coffee served throughout.

What Is 9¾?

9¾ is not just another café. According to the architects, it’s a “place that welcomes families, invites learning, and makes room for fun.” It was conceived as a urban oasis where people could gather, shop, read, and enjoy quality time with loved ones—without compromising on comfort, style, or coffee.

The Design Concept

The project was led by design team Daniel Mejía, Sara Ramírez, Carlos García, Felipe López, Maria F. Hormaza, Juan S. Tabares, and produced by PlasmaNodo in collaboration with Laura Palacio of VidaUtil.co. The space opened in 2015 and was photographed by Daniel Mejía.

The architects envisioned a place that balances two distinct but complementary experiences—one for kids and one for adults—within a single, unified environment. “We believe the city needs a warm, playful spot,” they said, “where families can have fun and adults can enjoy a good story.”

Kids’ Area: A Reading Hideaway

The children’s zone is described as a “little hide-and-seek place” where young visitors can draw, rest, play, and, most importantly, read. It’s designed as an engaging, imaginative space that encourages learning through play. Think soft materials, interactive features, and plenty of books—essentially, a mini private library made for exploration.

This area is tucked into the café layout in a way that gives children freedom to roam safely while keeping the main lounge calm and adult-oriented. The design doesn’t just accommodate kids—it actively invites them to stay and learn.

Adult Lounge: Cozy & Conversational

For adults, 9¾ offers a “private reading room and shared space,” surrounded by warm materials and furnished with pieces that “tell a story.” The atmosphere is relaxed yet intentional, meant to foster good conversations over great coffee. The furniture and decor are chosen to evoke joy and comfort—supporting long chats and quiet reading alike.

The goal is clear: create a space where the best ideas and discussions flow naturally, often paired with a well-brewed cup.

The Coffee

“Our coffee is the best in town,” say the architects, “and it’s Colombian.” While the article doesn’t specify the exact beans or brew methods used at 9¾, the emphasis on high-quality local coffee suggests a focus on Colombia’s renowned single-origin offerings. The café positions itself as a place where coffee isn’t just a beverage, but part of the experience—a catalyst for connection and creativity.

The space embraces the idea that “the best ideas and conversations happen with a good coffee,” reinforcing the role of specialty coffee in fostering community and dialogue.

Why This Design Works

By dividing the space thoughtfully, 9¾ meets the needs of two very different user groups without sacrificing atmosphere or function. The architectural team created a multi-use environment where:

• Kids have a safe, creative zone to explore books and play.
• Adults enjoy a serene, well-designed lounge for reading and talking.
• High-quality Colombian coffee serves as the common thread between both worlds.

The result is more than a café—it’s a community hub that respects the needs of families, readers, and coffee lovers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 9¾ café concept in Medellín?

9¾ is a 120sqm Colombian café and bookstore designed in 2015 by PLASMA NODO, combining a playful children’s reading area with a cozy lounge for adults. It’s meant to be a family-friendly space where people can read, relax, and enjoy Colombian coffee together.

Who designed the 9¾ café in Colombia?

The 9¾ café was designed by architecture firm PLASMA NODO with a team including Daniel Mejía, Sara Ramírez, Carlos García, Felipe López, Maria F. Hormaza, Juan S. Tabares. Production was handled by PlasmaNodo in collaboration with Laura Palacio of VidaUtil.co.

What year was the 9¾ project completed?

The 9¾ project was completed in 2015. It has since served as an example of how to blend children’s and adults’ spaces in a single café design.

What kind of coffee is served at 9¾?

9¾ serves what its creators describe as “the best coffee in town,” which is Colombian. While specific brewing details aren’t given, the café emphasizes high-quality local coffee as central to its community-focused atmosphere.

Is the 9¾ café suitable for families with children?

Yes, 9¾ includes a dedicated children’s area designed as a playful reading nook where kids can draw, play, and read, making it a family-friendly destination.

Who photographed the 9¾ café project?

The 9¾ café project was photographed by Daniel Mejía, who also contributed to the design team.

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