Blue Bottle Coffee Seongsu Cafe, located in Seoul, South Korea, is an impressive example of well-thought-out cafe design and beautiful cafe interiors. Designed by the renowned Schemata Architects, this minimalist coffee shop captures attention with its carefully curated furnishings, menu displays, and subtle yet modern wall signage.
Nestled amidst a neighborhood that was once filled with closed factories, the area has undergone a remarkable transformation. Thanks to the influx of young artists and the emergence of trendy stores, it has evolved into a vibrant and sought-after spot. Seongsu has now become a thriving mecca for cool cafes, and Blue Bottle Coffee Seongsu Store, the brand's first venture in Korea, stands as a testament to this burgeoning coffee culture.
Situated along a major road leading to Seoul's city center, the building that houses the cafe floor plan spans four floors, including a basement. Blue Bottle Coffee Seongsu occupies three floors, utilizing the basement as a serene and inviting modern cafe space. The first floor is dedicated to a meticulously designed roastery and a coffee bean storage room, while the second floor serves as a functional and creative office space. Within this architectural gem, visitors have the unique opportunity to witness the entire coffee preparation process, from the arrival of green coffee beans to the crafted art of roasting and brewing. The space also incorporates designated areas for cupping sessions and barista training, further enhancing the immersive coffee experience. It is poised to serve as the cornerstone for Blue Bottle Coffee's expansion plans in Korea.
The decision to situate the cafe in the basement was driven by multiple factors. Firstly, the first floor facing a busy road with heavy traffic would have hindered the pleasant view from the interior. Instead, the basement offered an opportunity to create a tranquil haven with its lofty ceilings. To optimize this creative space, a portion of the first-floor slab was artfully removed, resulting in a double-height ceiling for the basement cafe. This subterranean sanctuary provides a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle above ground.
Attention to detail in the industrial cafe design is evident throughout the space. The captivating menu displays are thoughtfully curated to showcase the coffee offerings and entice customers. Meanwhile, the engaging wall signage serves as both a decorative element and a means to communicate the brand's identity and values.
Embracing the concept of minimalism, the interior design incorporates industrial and contemporary elements. Taking advantage of the cost efficiency of stainless steel in Korea compared to Japan, the use of stainless steel adds a modern touch to various elements, including the side walls of counters, stairs, handrails, and doors. This choice, uncommon in Japanese design, elevates the aesthetics of the space. Additionally, the cafe pays homage to Seongsu's architectural heritage by incorporating brick tiles — a historic construction material that adds a touch of warmth and authenticity. Some furniture pieces within the cafe are even crafted from bricks, adding an element of charm and nostalgia.
Blue Bottle Coffee Seongsu Cafe represents the epitome of cafe excellence, merging exceptional cafe design, captivating cafe interiors, alluring menu displays, and striking wall signage. This cafe has quickly become a beloved destination for coffee enthusiasts in Seoul, providing an immersive experience that delights the senses and fosters a deep appreciation for the art of coffee.
Explore our range of minimal and modern menu boards and exterior signage to steal Blue Bottle Coffee’s cafe design style.