From curved forms to coffee rituals

The Incantalia concept store embodies a vision where craftsmanship, architecture, and enogastronomic excellence converge. As the latest retail venture of Il Polo del Gusto by Riccardo Illy, this space is a curated expression of refinement, offering an exquisite selection of premium culinary delights.

Fluidity defines its design. Visitors are seamlessly guided through a spatial composition where architecture and experience become one. A sculptural shelving structure, composed of continuous concave and convex curves, extends from floor to ceiling, embracing the perimeter in an uninterrupted architectural flow. This meticulous design ensures that every element within the space exists in perfect harmony.

Constructed from modular components, the framework integrates a curved base serving as a container, an upper cladding that mirrors its curvature up to the ceiling, and three gracefully contoured shelves. Subtle LED illumination at eye level enhances the display, elevating each product to an objet d’art.

The space is further unified by a monochromatic palette, enveloped in a bio-ecological material in the brand’s signature shade of orange. The result is an immersive environment that is as captivating as it is sensorial.

A luxurious Murano chandelier, an elegantly curved counter, an embracing sofa, and sculptural cylindrical display stands complete the composition—each element a statement of artistry and intent.

This project truly inspired us: the harmony of form and the fluidity of line achieved here not only reflect Riccardo Illy’s vision but also redefine the very essence of retail design—transforming a space into an experience, where beauty merges with functionality and the pursuit of excellence.

Beyond the Scenes: In Trieste, Coffee is an Institution

In Trieste, coffee is more than a drink—it is heritage, ritual, and identity. The city, shaped by its historic role in the coffee trade, has cultivated a deep-rooted culture around this cherished beverage. The literary cafés, once frequented by intellectuals and writers, remain testaments to a tradition where conversation and refinement meet over an espresso.

Here, ordering coffee requires fluency in a unique lexicon. An espresso in a cup? It’s a NERO. Prefer it in a glass? Ask for a NERO IN B. A macchiato in a cup is a CAPO, while in a glass, it becomes a CAPO IN B. A cappuccino? In Trieste, it’s simply a CAFFELATTE.

Architect Michael Sorgato, designer of the Incantalia project, recalls his initiation into this world with a touch of irony:

“I usually drink my coffee lungo, which in Trieste is practically heresy.
The first time I went to order coffee for the entire team of craftsmen, site managers, and the client, I asked for a lungo for myself. The barista immediately marked me as a forestiero ( a foreigner).
The client gave me an embarrassed look, while one of the local craftsmen couldn’t hold back: ‘So, do you enjoy drinking rainwater from the gutters?’ Everyone burst into laughter, and I felt completely out of place.
From that day on, and for the entire duration of the project, I only ordered a NERO!”