17 Mile Coffee: A Journey of Discovery

Exploring Tao Huang and Zhihong Li's Award-Winning Cafe Design

The 17 Mile Coffee, named after the distance one can maintain from the world while facing the vast Pacific Ocean, is a testament to the designers' ability to integrate the precious gifts of nature and their spiritual connotations into the space. The design is a unique interpretation of humanity's eternal pursuit of the unknown and the spirit of never-ending progress, all presented from a unique artistic perspective.

What sets this design apart is its ability to create a series of fascinating scenes for the exploration of space. The cafe, spanning 560 square meters, is a blend of materials such as hull stainless steel, cables, and leather that interpret cultural characteristics in line with the environmental theme. The design draws on traditional ship's sidelights, rudders, and other elements, transforming them into artistic installations that trigger the guests' imagination.

The cafe's interior is designed to evoke emotional germination, resonance, and retrospect. Abundant books are cleverly displayed, creating a wonderful atmosphere under the warm yellow light. The cafe is not just a place for relaxation, but also a dream of a beautiful and free life. It is like the soul of the city, offering a respite from the urban hustle and bustle.

The design project, which started in June 2017 in Hunan, China, and finished in April 2018, faced several creative, technical, and research challenges. The designers successfully utilized the strong and steady red brick wall in space, a classic architectural style of Boston, the oldest city in the United States. The combination of red brick, plain grey cement, and wooden flooring brings warmth and natural energy to the space.

The 17 Mile Coffee was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2019. The award is a recognition of the design's outstanding expertise and innovation, its strong technical characteristics, and splendid artistic skill. The cafe is a testament to the designers' ability to create a space that is not just functional, but also a journey of discovery.