Smile Coffee: A Sanctuary of Hygge in the City

Bryan Chang's Award-Winning Design Embraces Danish Philosophy of Comfort

Bryan Chang's design for Smile Coffee is a masterful blend of simplicity and comfort. The shop owner's desire to incorporate the Danish philosophy of "Hygge" into the design has resulted in a space that exudes a sense of tranquility and warmth. The original cement texture of the building is retained, and recycled wood is used extensively, creating a charming environment that is both rustic and modern.

The unique properties of the design lie in its minimalistic approach. The designers have made minimal modifications to the space, preserving its intrinsic quality. The shop's low-profile location in the city is contrasted with its inviting interior, which is characterized by large areas of natural light, candle-shaped annular lighting, and a color scheme dominated by Prussian blue, the representative color of the enterprise.

The realization of the design involved a careful selection of materials and techniques. The exterior of the shop features a wood grain fair-faced concrete wall, complemented by lush green landscapes. Inside, the designers have retained the original appearance of the building and used recycled wood to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The bar area is illuminated by diffused light, and the walls are adorned with manually sprayed words on planks, giving the materials a new lease of life.

The design also includes a U-shaped bar that encourages communal enjoyment of life. A specially constructed platform loft connects the dining area on the second floor with the transitional area, which is marked by a glass compartment. The seating arrangement here is designed to facilitate the flow of space, while the oblique splice wood plates of the ceiling add a rich layering of vision.

Despite the challenges posed by the original building's hollowed high ceiling pattern, the designers have successfully used stairs to connect three different elevations of the space. The counter on the first floor forms a field axis with a long table, serving as a hub of service and interaction. The design also includes a to-go window and exterior seating area, ensuring that the brand's philosophy is spread to every corner of the space.

In conclusion, Smile Coffee is a testament to Bryan Chang's ability to create a space that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also embodies a philosophy of life. The design's success in the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award is a testament to its uniqueness and the designers' commitment to creating a space that is both functional and emotionally resonant. Smile Coffee invites visitors to slow down, enjoy a cup of coffee, and embrace the essence of life.