
Over & Above by EMPT Studio
Positioned along the historic waterfront of Weld Quay—once the bustling site of the Port of Penang—Over & Above by EMPT Studio is a contemporary café-bar hybrid that thoughtfully inhabits a heritage building.
The project is a considered commercial intervention that bridges past and present, maintaining the integrity of the existing structure while introducing subtle, purposeful updates.
Pelmets were introduced to lower portions of the ceiling, carving out distinct zones to support the business's evolving needs across different times of day. These lowered planes help define areas of activity and rest, lending cadence to the open plan while preserving the building's spatial clarity.
The layout offers a variety of seating arrangements, from banquette seating that hugs the perimeter walls to freestanding tables and chairs. This mix supports a range of social interactions, adding diversity to the customer experience without disrupting the architectural coherence.
To complement the tactile, material-driven palette, the interior is animated by art and digital interventions. Motion graphics and installations, developed in collaboration with Foci Collective, inject moments of vibrancy throughout the space. Pops of orange—woven through select artworks and spatial accents—bring a contemporary energy that sits comfortably against the subdued industrial backdrop.
Consistent timber flooring flows throughout, grounding the zones and bringing warmth to the otherwise pared-back scheme. Lighting plays a pivotal role: minimalist sconces highlight the texture of the concrete walls, while ambient lighting defines the broader spatial moods. In select areas, softly illuminated translucent structures double as dividers or displays, offering sculptural moments that quietly transform the room.
With a careful balance of old and new, Over & Above reflects a deep respect for place while offering a fresh take on adaptive reuse. The result is a layered environment where material history and modern hospitality converge.