Reem's California - Eufinger Studio

Reem's Cafe

Oakland, California

About Project

Eufinger Studio served as the architectural Design Consultant on this proposal for Reem’s California’s new café and commercial kitchen in Oakland, for Bay Area based Designer Sandra Jiminez.

Project Status: On hold

Design Principal

Sandra Jimenez

Jimenez Design

Design ConsultanT

Joshua Eufinger

The proposal reimagines the brand’s signature blend of Arab hospitality and California sensibility within an existing five-story mixed-use building. Designed as an interior tenant improvement project, the café reflects Reem’s dedication to community connection and culinary tradition while adapting to a modern urban environment.

The exterior utilizes curtain wall windows, allowing abundant natural light to illuminate the interior and establishing a seamless visual connection with the vibrant Oakland streetscape. The design takes full advantage of the existing building’s structure to create an inviting, open, and community-focused atmosphere.

Inside, the open layout integrates the café and commercial kitchen, fostering a sense of transparency and inviting patrons to experience the culinary process firsthand.

The interior design features a thoughtful mix of materials, including polished concrete floors and wood slatted ceilings, creating a balance between industrial modernity and warmth. Custom lighting fixtures and vibrant artwork inspired by Arab culture bring an eclectic, welcoming touch to the space.

A standout feature of the café is the communal seating area, designed to encourage social interaction and reflect Reem’s mission of building community. The vibrant wall mural and decorative elements nod to the rich artistry and cultural heritage of Arab traditions, complementing the modern aesthetic of the space.

This interior renovation celebrates the cultural and culinary fusion that defines Reem’s California. By embracing the existing building’s framework and weaving in elements of Arab artistry and Californian modernity, the café becomes more than a place to dine—it transforms into a dynamic hub for connection, culture, and community in the heart of Oakland.