(Background and Purpose) As consumer lifestyles rapidly shift and value-based consumption becomes increasingly prominent, perceptions of space and spatial usage patterns are undergoing a multi-layered transformation. Large-scale cafes, in particular, ...
(Background and Purpose) As consumer lifestyles rapidly shift and value-based consumption becomes increasingly prominent, perceptions of space and spatial usage patterns are undergoing a multi-layered transformation. Large-scale cafes, in particular, are evolving beyond their traditional role as food-and-beverage venues to become complex cultural spaces that combine cultural, experiential, and community functions. This phenomenon reflects a shift in consumer priorities, where people actively seek meaningful experiences and values beyond mere consumption. F&B spaces now function as platforms that express and support specific lifestyles, rather than simply providing products. This study aims to conceptualize large-scale cafes as complex cultural spaces and to establish their spatial design strategies based on contemporary consumer values, ultimately proposing a practical design framework applicable in real planning and operation. (Method) Through theoretical research, this study examines the value and changing role of consumer culture and spatial design, while outlining the characteristics shared by large-scale cafes and complex cultural spaces. By synthesizing these characteristics with major elements of consumer value, six core spatial strategies and twenty-two detailed strategies were derived. To verify their validity, an expert survey was conducted to assess each strategy’s importance and feasibility. In addition, eight representative large-scale cafes in Korea were selected as empirical case studies, and their spatial configurations were analyzed to examine the current level of implementation. (Results) The findings reveal that the application of core strategies was unevenly distributed. Open Accessibility emerged as the most actively realized strategy, as many cafes enhanced user convenience through vehicle access, ample parking, intuitive circulation, and diverse seating choices. Sensory Immersion was the second most applied strategy, strengthening spatial engagement through natural elements, themed interiors, and tactile finishes; however, balanced stimulation across all five senses was limited. Functional Complexity was partially implemented by incorporating exhibition, commercial, or community functions, though these were often arranged in parallel rather than through integrated spatial programming. Conversely, Interactive Engagement, Contextual Placemaking, and Sustainable Cultural Integration demonstrated relatively weak implementation. Interactive Engagement was frequently limited to one-time or passive events, and Contextual Placemaking lacked meaningful connections with local resources. Sustainable Cultural Integration was the least implemented, with minimal cultural programs or eco-friendly design elements. (Conclusions) Large-scale cafes are actively evolving into complex cultural spaces that reflect diverse consumer values. However, while physical accessibility, sensory stimulation, and functional diversity are relatively well developed, contextual storytelling, participatory content, and sustainability remain limited. Therefore, future spatial design must expand beyond emotional experience to adopt multi-dimensional approaches that incorporate local identity, user participation, and sustainable cultural planning. This study provides a structured, value-based framework that can serve as practical guidance for designers and operators seeking to enhance cultural depth and experiential quality in large-scale cafe spaces.