UN.COMMON

At the heart of the project is “The Living Network of Roots,” reflecting Uncommon’s deep connections with its coffee producers. Inspired by the way natural networks create resilience and nourishment, the concept highlights how interconnectedness fosters emotional and physical balance. Instil drew parallels between this idea and the human nervous system, showing how healthy roots—both literal and metaphorical—ground us and create a sense of connection to people, places, and ourselves.

Instil Collective partnered with neuroarchitect Andréa de Paiva to explore how design impacts wellbeing. Inspired by fractal patterns found in nature, the café’s materials and textures create a calming, organic rhythm. Influenced by Juhani Pallasmaa’s human-centric philosophy, Instil integrates branding into the design to tell the story of the space, deepening the emotional connection. Elements like quartzite, Bogaji fabric, textured glass, and hand-carved wooden floors balance natural forces, fostering harmony and mindfulness.

Instil designs sensory-driven spaces that foster wellbeing, blending attention and intention to evoke tranquillity. Their approach connects inner and outer worlds by engaging the body and mind. The Uncommon collaboration marks the start of a research initiative to gather biofeedback on how design affects emotional and physical states. This ongoing exploration ensures future spaces continue to nurture individual and collective balance.