Nanmei Coffee

After the operation of three generations of family business for over fifty years, the Shilin main store of Nanmei Coffee has gradually evolved from the early governmental-licensed-quota coffee bean trader into coffee beans retail as well as offering an exceptional in-cafe experience. Nanmei Coffee is also a pioneering and long-established brand in Taiwan's coffee industry. Therefore, the primary goal of this interior design project is to respond thoughtfully to this historical transformation.

In October 2022, we embarked on a 20-month design journey. Although the project was carried out intermittently, it is remarkably long for commercial space design in Taiwan, allowing us to refine the design plan to perfection. By mid-2024, the project entered the construction phase. Braving the scorching summer weather, we completed the construction in three and a half months, leading to a trial run to enable Nanmei Coffee to welcome its long-awaited loyal customers.

Aesthetically, we established a clear theme through a well-defined analytical process, carefully considering the history, cultural context, and evolution over the years. Given the close relationship between the history of the coffee trade and colonial culture, coupled with the fact that Shilin District is one of the slow-developing areas of Taipei City where streets still reflect the landscape of the 1990s and 2000s, we have decided to blend the architectural vernacular of Taipei’s traditional alleyways during the early days with colonial-style aesthetics after several discussions with the client. This integration includes elements such as hand-made iron flowers intertwined around the window, retro patterned floor tiles, vintage glazed wall tiles, historical frosted glass lighting fixtures, and hardwood from Southeast Asia, creating a harmonious blend of the landscape of alleyways in Taiwan from half a century ago and an eclectic colonial style. We have also preserved several decorative items that have been in use for decades in the shop, and even remaking the first sign from 1970, by using new hinoki wood. This design takes loyal customers back to their youth without being tied to a specific time period, creating an atmosphere that is both refined and timeless.