Baker’s Arch Cafe: A Laurie Baker Legacy with a Tropical Twist
Nestled in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Baker’s Arch Cafe seamlessly blends Laurie Baker’s architectural ethos with a lush, tropical aesthetic. At first glance, it feels like a Baker-designed marvel transported into Bali’s vibrant landscape.
Yet, a step into its backyard reveals a surprising transformation—a whimsical open garden café. Kochi-based architect Vinod Mathews of Kriya crafts this unique ambiance, who envisioned this space as much more than just a café.
A Storied Past
Baker’s Arch Cafe has a rich history. Originally built in the early 1980s by Laurie Baker as a private residence, it passed through the hands of Malayalam actor Captain Raju in 1992 before being acquired by the Muthoot Pappachan Group in 2003.
For 12 years, the building served as Vinod’s architectural studio. When the decision was made to convert it into a café, Preethi John Muthoot and Thomas John Muthoot entrusted Vinod with complete creative freedom, knowing his deep familiarity with the structure and his previous successes designing for MPG’s ventures.
Vinod’s vision was clear: preserve the building’s legacy while transforming it into a contemporary garden café. Unlike many of Baker’s buildings that have fallen into disrepair, this project revitalized the structure, merging the past with the present.
From Residence to Garden Cafe
The three-level Baker’s Arch embodies Laurie Baker’s philosophy of harmonizing architecture with the natural landscape. The dramatic entrance, perched on the highest level, leads visitors down a cobblestone pathway to an exposed feature wall and an iconic arch. These additions, including a gracefully aging fountain, were Vinod’s contributions when the space served as his office.
The second level houses the main café building, encircling the fountain, while the backyard has been reimagined as an outdoor garden café and coffee bar. Inside, the rooms are thoughtfully repurposed into versatile spaces: a co-working area, a lounge, and both common and private dining rooms. The basement has been converted into a state-of-the-art kitchen.
Sensitive Interventions
The architect makes minimal yet thoughtful interventions to the original structure. Mathews removes some walls to accomodate washrooms, and extends the basement kitchen to meet the cafe’s needs. Remarkably, he conserves features like the roof, flooring, and windows in their original form. The Lotus Hall, the primary dining area, retains its iconic design with three grand brick arches forming a lotus-like frame.
A Tropical Escape
The highlight of Baker’s Arch Cafe lies in its outdoors. Vinod’s design focus was on creating an inviting garden-like space while respecting the original architectural essence. Statement brick walls—a hallmark of Baker’s style—are strategically placed outdoors at the wash area, near the waterbody, and at the entrance. The coffee bar counters feature brass plates with cutout patterns mimicking Baker’s signature brickwork.
Design and Aesthetic
The café’s colour palette harmoniously blends black, grey, and brick red. Indoors, the vibrant brick walls are softened with grey tones to strike a balance, while outdoors, grey limestone flooring complements the red brick walls. Lush greenery, featuring plumeria and bamboo varieties, adds a tropical flair. A bamboo-designed false ceiling, covered with glass, protects the space from Kerala’s rains and mitigates the summer heat.
A challenge arose in repurposing furniture from previous MPG hospitality projects, which varied in colour. Painting them black unified the aesthetic, further enhanced by statement lighting and fans finished in black.
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A Space That Bridges Eras
Baker’s Arch Cafe is a testament to thoughtful design and preservation. By blending Laurie Baker’s architectural philosophy with a contemporary tropical vibe, Vinod Mathews has created a space that invites guests to experience both history and modernity.
Whether enjoying the airy garden café or soaking in the architectural brilliance indoors, visitors are sure to be captivated by the charm of this one-of-a-kind venue.
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