Chiquita: Valencia Cafe, Bookshop, and Wine Bar

Studio SahuquillodeArriba has renovated a 59-square-meter space located in Valencia's El Botànic neighborhood into Chiquita, a hybrid venue blending a cafe, bookshop, and wine bar. Designed for product designer Gloria Izquierdo, the project integrates these three functions into a continuous interior using color, material contrasts, and custom furniture to link the distinct zones together.

A prominent architectural element is the full-length ash wood bookcase stained in deep burgundy, which runs along one side and extends into the bathroom. Opposite this feature, a continuous bench and small white marble tables introduce lighter surfaces, while the textured ceiling is finished in soft blue. Integrated shelf lighting, wall sconces, and table lamps create an intimate, domestic atmosphere throughout the interior.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

To honor the building's history, the renovation preserves existing structural characters by restoring original walls with a thin, breathable coating that resolves dampness while maintaining original textures and imperfections. At the rear, a large communal table accommodates book clubs, meetings, and gatherings, reinforcing Chiquita's function as a hub for cultural exchange.