One of the most interesting trends in interior design over the past few years is the integration of household appliances, electronic devices and assorted machinery with the overall design of spaces. Air conditioners, extractor hoods, screens, printers, washing machines... have always been conceived with an aesthetic independent of the interior design. However, for some years now, companies have been paying more attention to their inclusion in spaces or imagining fully integrated solutions.

This is the direction taken by the new Modbar concept, an innovative under-counter coffee machine system that neatly conceals the hardware under the worktop, leaving only the stainless steel taps visible, which in addition to their normal functionality add a refined detail to the space. In addition to the aesthetic aspect, Modbar also revolutionises the relationship between barista and customer, which thus becomes direct and unobstructed.

The idea for the Modbar system came – as it often happens – from the intuition of two good coffee lovers, Cory Waldron and Aric Forbing. The two friends wanted to educate their community, that of Fort Wayne, Indiana, on the ritual of coffee and envisioned a machine that would not block the view of the brewing process. Combining Cory's product knowledge and Aric's engineering skills, this idea slowly took shape with an initial handcrafted prototype, which was then developed in every single detail with a view to industrial production. Modbar is thus conceived from the outset as a conversational element, activating everyday relationships through the passion for coffee.

The stainless steel taps Espresso, Steam and Pour-Over have chrome-plated brass finishes and can be treated to have a shiny or matt look. The taps can be finished in any colour (RAL or Pantone), while other elements, such as the filter holder and tap handle, can be refined in maple or walnut. Modbar collaborates with Officine Fratelli Bambi, an artisan workshop in Fiesole, Italy, with whom customers can work closely to create a unique, customised Modbar espresso system.

This new concept is the result of years of research and development and is made possible by the support of La Marzocco, an Italian company specialised in high-end espresso machines. The innovative product transforms the bar and café experience, facilitating contact between barista and customer and offering different coffee drinks in an elegant and minimalist way.