Blue Bottle Coffee opens its first South China store in Shenzhen, featuring a distinctive design by COLLECTIVE.
Contents
Design Concept and Objectives
Blue Bottle Coffee’s new Shenzhen location marks a significant step for the global specialty coffee brand, being its first foray into South China. The design, a collaboration with Hong Kong-based architectural firm COLLECTIVE, embodies Blue Bottle’s commitment to quality and flavor while embracing the spirit of Shenzhen. The design team aimed to create a space that reflects the city’s innovative, dynamic, and inclusive character, integrating natural textures, contemporary culture, and futuristic elements.
Spatial Planning and Layout
Situated within the bustling MixC World high street, the store welcomes visitors with a gradient of blue hues that flow seamlessly across the two-level space. This immersive design evokes a sense of tranquility, inviting exploration and discovery. The ground floor features a striking bar counter constructed from frosted acrylic and stainless steel mesh, illuminated by a grid-patterned ceiling that emits a cool, white light. This combination of materials and lighting creates a modern, tech-forward aesthetic. Notably, this location is the only Blue Bottle store worldwide to feature custom-made blue filters, adding a playful touch to their signature pour-over coffee service.
Exterior Design and Aesthetics
The exterior of the Blue Bottle Coffee Shenzhen MixC World store seamlessly integrates with the modern architectural landscape of the surrounding area. Large glass windows provide a glimpse into the vibrant interior, inviting passersby to step inside and experience the unique coffee culture within.
Furniture and Materiality
In a nod to the future, the store introduces innovative resin furniture in shades of gray and blue. These pieces, alongside warm wood accents, create a balanced contrast to the cooler tones and technological elements. The seating options are varied, from the long bench on the ground floor to the comfortable sofas on the second level. A dedicated reading area with bar seating offers a space for individual reflection, while the central round table, adorned with bespoke floral arrangements, encourages social interaction and shared experiences.
Project Information:
Architects: COLLECTIVE
Area: 410 m²
Year: 2024
Location: Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
Category: Commercial Buildings
Tags: coffee shop, interior design, Shenzhen, resin furniture, blue bottle coffee, collective