This is a period of incredible growth and innovation in the world of coffee. I’ve noticed an explosion of new spaces, books, talks, TV programs, and more. In Japan, there has always been a unique cultural focus on coffee. This appreciation extends beyond the beverage itself to include creativity, design, and service, resulting in a retail experience that feels truly distinctive.
As an example, Yosuke Hayashi, the director of Tokyo-based design studio 14sd / Fourteen Stones Design, recently designed the coffee shop KOFFEE MAMEYA -Kakeru- in Kiyosumi-shirakawa, Tokyo. This space was transformed from a warehouse into a thoughtfully crafted shop, complete with a retail counter and seating for 27 guests.
The project’s goal was to evolve the coffee experience into a full-service café and coffee bean shop showcasing advanced barista skills. The owner was deeply passionate about creating a space that not only elevated the barista’s profession but also connected it to society, much like the role of sommeliers in the wine industry.
When it came to the design, a long coffee counter was chosen as the centerpiece, forming a strong and recognizable identity for the shop. This central element was intentionally placed without any external signage, creating a façade that piques the curiosity of passersby. The result is a space that blends innovation and tradition, perfectly embodying the evolving coffee culture.
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