Lesprit Cafe: A Rebirth in Design

Chen and Chou's Award-Winning Design for a Sophisticated Cafe Experience

Lesprit Cafe, a project by Tung Chieh Chen and Chun Hsiao Chou, is a testament to the resilience of the entrepreneurial spirit and the transformative power of design. This article explores the unique elements that earned this cafe the prestigious Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2020.

Lesprit Cafe is not just another restaurant; it's a story of perseverance and passion. The client, after an unsuccessful first attempt, decided to establish a second cafe. This decision was not taken lightly, but after five years of preparation, the project was launched. The design of the cafe is a blend of various elements, including customer characteristics, the meals served, and the impressions left by the first cafe. The result is a unified visual sense that extends even to the building's exterior.

The design's unique properties lie in its use of space and symbolism. The installation art of clouds, carried over from the first shop, represents the idea of dreams and the client's dedication to using quality ingredients. The rail lighting, another element from the first cafe, is incorporated into the bar design, creating a functional and atmospheric space. The dining area, facing windows, offers customers a view of the outdoors and a leisurely dining experience.

The cafe's design is realized through a combination of flat marble, matt brass, and black and white tile flooring, creating a calm, warm, and stylish atmosphere. The furniture from the first store is reused, reducing costs and maintaining a consistent style. The space is mainly painted in blue, complementing the green exterior of the building. The kitchen facilities and pipings are arranged to suit operational needs, and the entire space is designed for easy maintenance.

Despite budget constraints, the design team managed to create an aesthetically pleasing space. They reused hardware and software from the first store, including hanging display cabinets, guest tables, and dining chairs. The space flow was optimized through continuous practices, and large tungsten filament bulbs were used to attract passersby. The result is a space that is not only functional but also visually captivating.

Lesprit Cafe is a testament to the resilience of the entrepreneurial spirit and the transformative power of design. It's a space that not only serves food but also tells a story of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of dreams. The design's clean lines, cement texture, and high color saturation reflect the client's resilience and determination to restart his business. The dark color tone, which relates to the building exterior, presents a calm atmosphere and unity. The unique interior lighting attracts passersby, and the furniture from the first store adds a sense of familiarity for the customers.

Lesprit Cafe's design is a testament to the power of resilience and the transformative potential of design. The cafe's rebirth is a story of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of dreams. It's a space that not only serves food but also tells a story of determination and the pursuit of dreams. With its award-winning design, Lesprit Cafe is a shining example of how design can transform a space and create a unique and captivating dining experience.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Tung Chieh Chen, Chun Hsiao Chou
Image Credits: LEO DAI
Project Team Members: Chen Tung Chieh Chou Chun Hsiao
Project Name: Lesprit cafe
Project Client: Tung Chieh Chen, Chun Hsiao Chou


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