OGAWA COFFEE LABORATORY SAKURA-SHINMACHI

DirectionPR

2020.8.1

Ogawa Coffee, founded in Kyoto in 1952, launched its first rebranding project with the completion of OGAWA COFFEE LABORATORY in Sakura-Shinmachi.

The starting point for the creative direction was the naming. By naming it "OGAWA COFFEE LABORATORY," we aimed to highlight the progressive aspect of Ogawa Coffee.The name embodies the depth of knowledge in specialty coffee, the high level of roasting techniques, and the skill of baristas, representing the company as a leading force in coffee culture, while also positioning it as an experimental shop that continues to evolve.

A notable feature of the design is that the counter area is set deeper than the customer space. This characteristic utilized the original features of the property, and we commissioned the designer to create a space that takes advantage of this height difference. In the center, we placed a kura (storehouse) with a small entrance, resembling a tea room, and it serves as a coffee bean storage. The counter was designed to circulate around this kura, ensuring a natural flow while allowing customers to observe the barista's craftsmanship from any angle.

Additionally, we focused on creating a space that is not overly bright. The interior, which receives ample natural light through large windows, beautifully reflects the different moods of the day: vibrant during the day, warm in the evening, and serene at night. The direction aimed to maximize the allure of this space.

From cup and saucer sets to trays, specialty coffee decanters, and various cutlery, we engaged specialists in each field. Yet, each element harmonizes without being overly assertive, resulting in a uniquely new space.

Creative Director

Takayuki Minami (alpha.co.ltd)

Architectural Designer

Yusuke Seki (Yusuke Seki Studio)

Culinary Supervision

Tomohiro Maruyama (cherche inc.)

Music Selector

Osamu Okino (Kyoto Jazz Massive/Kyoto Jazz Sextet)

Editor

Takahiro Shibata (Kichi)

Art Direction

Shogo Kosakai (Siun)

Ceramic Artist

Tetsuya Otani

Produced cups and saucers for specialty coffee.

Woodworker

Yu Uchida

Produced trays for specialty coffee.

Glass Artist

Makoto Kakizaki

Produced candle holders.

Woodworker

Kazunori Kochi

Produced shelves for merchandise.

Glass Studio

STUDIO PREPA

Produced decanters for specialty coffee.

Brass Artist

Lue

Produced cutlery.

Woodworker

Tsuyoshi Koyama

Produced artwork for the store.