Chubby Bird County: A Multifunctional Coffee Shop with a Modern British Twist

A Unique Blend of Culture and Aesthetics

The brand "Chubby Bird" draws inspiration from the British national bird, the Robin, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the beauty of gardens. Designed by Tai-En Wu, this multifunctional coffee shop combines the cozy European lifestyle with the elegance of British afternoon tea, creating a space that not only serves coffee but also houses offices, select shops, and a furnishing area. It aims to provide visitors with a soulful experience and an appreciation for cultural aesthetics.

Unlike conventional storefronts, Chubby Bird County takes a step back by moving the counter area to create a British tea parlor ambiance. The design incorporates mezzanine ladders that lead visitors into an attic-like space. Symmetric windows and doors contribute to a visually harmonious aesthetic, complemented by antique furniture and a 1920s writing desk imported from the UK. These elements create a warm and retro atmosphere, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the mellow temperature of the past.

The design specifications of Chubby Bird County reflect the brand's image. Grass-green patterned wallpaper, Versailles bamboo rattan chairs, and totemic tiles evoke the ambiance of a spring garden. Ink-colored marble tables, golden window frames, and lighting decorations add a touch of noble luxury to the fresh mood. The dominant theme of the design is "green," representing vitality and Chinese classical flavor, while "gold" symbolizes sumptuousness. The concise and well-executed lines outline a modern European style.

Chubby Bird County's unique strength lies in its ability to seamlessly blend different functions within the space. The long and narrow spatial scale is divided into two areas: one side serves as offices, restrooms, and booth areas, while the other side functions as a display area, counter, and dining space. To achieve spatial interflow and visual penetration, the design avoids cubicles and instead uses lighting, home accessories, and different materials on the floor to distinguish functional attributes.

Since its opening, Chubby Bird County has captivated visitors with its modern British style. The warm and soft lighting creates a pleasant and contented atmosphere, making it difficult for anyone to leave. The designers have successfully integrated the space's ambiance with the brand image, creating a multifunctional site that embodies culture and aesthetics. The well-planned functionality of the space ensures convenience and agility for both owners and visitors.

Completed in 2016, Chubby Bird County is located in Taipei City. The design process involved extensive research into classic European garden styles, which inspired the grass-green wallpaper and warm lighting. To recreate the glory of the past, a 1920s writing desk was imported from the UK, providing visitors with a nostalgic experience. The project presented creative and technical challenges, such as utilizing the long and narrow spatial scale effectively and achieving spatial interflow without cubicles.

Chubby Bird County, designed by Tai-En Wu, is a testament to the designer's creativity and attention to detail. It has been recognized with the prestigious Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2019. This award celebrates designs that demonstrate resourcefulness, technical skill, and a commitment to improving quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Tai-En Wu
Image Credits: All images credits belong to ORCUS INTERIOR DESIGN/Tai-En Wu, Chubby Bird County, 2016
Project Team Members: Wei-Ting Lin
Project Name: Chubby Bird
Project Client: Tai-En Wu


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