Cesarin Showcooking by co.arch studio: A Theatrical Culinary Space in Verona

The Cesarin Showcooking project by co.arch studio transforms an industrial production building in Verona into a refined, multifunctional culinary showroom. Completed in 2023, this innovative interior architecture project reimagines a century-old candied fruit factory located in the Valdalpone agricultural region, an area renowned for its cherry orchards.

Adaptive Reuse of an Industrial Interior

Set within the first floor of an existing factory, the space features a pitched roof, an impressive internal height of five meters, and perimeter double windows. Rather than erasing the industrial character, the design preserves the exposed structural beams, painting them to blend with the walls and create a neutral backdrop. This approach allows the new architectural intervention to stand out while maintaining a dialogue with the building’s heritage.

A Wooden Volume as Spatial Core

At the heart of the project lies a striking double-height wooden volume, conceived as a “house within a house.” This freestanding structure organizes the interior while contrasting with the industrial shell. Its design emphasizes verticality, using a rhythm of solids and voids to create dynamic spatial relationships and layered visual connections.

Inspired by San Girolamo nello studio, the volume reflects the idea of inhabiting a piece of furniture: merging architecture, functionality, and narrative into a single sculptural element. The reference introduces a sense of order, perspective, and almost utopian spatial clarity.

Theatrical Atmosphere and Spatial Experience

The project draws from theatrical design principles, creating a scenographic experience where the main show cooking area is not immediately visible upon entry. Soft, wavy curtains filter natural light and evoke stage curtains, enhancing the sense of anticipation and performance. This design strategy transforms the culinary space into a stage for demonstration and storytelling.

Material Strategy and Construction Innovation

Constructed using a lightweight balloon frame system, the wooden volume features fir pillars and beams clad in okumè wood. The warm tones subtly reference cherry wood, paying homage to the company’s primary product. Prefabrication techniques enabled precision, efficiency, and high-quality craftsmanship, with the structure manufactured in South Tyrol and assembled on-site.

Functional Layout and Program Integration

The interior is carefully organized to accommodate multiple functions. The ground floor includes a welcoming coffee area, lounge seating, wardrobe space, and concealed service areas such as restrooms. A corridor leads to the main show cooking space, complete with a professional kitchen, counter, storeroom, and staff facilities.

Above, the mezzanine level hosts a meeting room centered around a large table, offering a more private and focused environment. This vertical layering of functions maximizes the available volume while maintaining visual connectivity.

The Cesarin Showcooking project exemplifies contemporary adaptive reuse, blending industrial heritage with refined interior architecture. Through its sculptural wooden volume, theatrical elements, and precise materiality, co.arch studio creates a unique culinary environment that is both functional and experiential.

All photographs are works of  Simone Bossi