Designed by: @protti.arquitectura x @gaas_arquitectura

Captured by: @gonzaloarcec

Aspen is a neighbourhood-style cantina in Villa Crespo, Buenos Aires, with an inviting daytime atmosphere, an open kitchen and a menu centred on classic porteño dishes. The restaurant serves freshly prepared comfort food for both dine-in and takeout, bringing the character of a local corner shop into a contemporary setting.

The architecture seeks to preserve the authentic spirit of a traditional Buenos Aires corner shop while adapting it to its current use. At the centre of the small corner restaurant is a bold focal element: a vivid red-painted floor that extends across the entire space. The walls and ceiling are kept in neutral tones and understated materials, creating a restrained backdrop for the floor.

The atmosphere is shaped by a contrast of textures, balancing raw and rustic elements with smoother, polished finishes. This interplay gives the interior a tactile quality while maintaining a clean and contemporary aesthetic. Formica, stainless steel, epoxy coating and warm timber form the main material palette, combining different surfaces within the compact space.

The furniture is divided into two distinct families. Classic wooden bar chairs are paired with custom-designed tables featuring an interlocking tabletop system. Together, these elements bring contemporary minimalism and vintage accents into the same setting, reinforcing the balance between the restaurant’s traditional references and its modern architectural approach.