Architecture studio Keiji Ashizawa Design has created a serene coffee sanctuary in one of Osaka's busiest districts, drawing inspiration from the city's most iconic structures including Osaka Castle and the distinctive Tsutenkaku Tower. The new Blue Bottle Coffee Shinsaibashi location transforms a 120-square-meter space into what the architect describes as "an oasis in the city."
Located in Osaka's energetic Shinsaibashi district, the cafe was designed to provide visitors with a peaceful retreat from urban hustle. "Blue Bottle Coffee asked us to create 'an oasis in the city,'" architect Keiji Ashizawa explained. "In the energetic and diverse district of Shinsaibashi, we wanted to design a space where people can take a brief pause from their busy daily lives and discover moments of calm through a cup of good coffee."
The interior design showcases a harmonious blend of raw industrial elements and refined Japanese craftsmanship. Exposed concrete walls dominate the space, creating continuity between the interior and exterior while serving as a neutral backdrop for warmer materials. "The existing structure had a strong concrete character, and we wanted to preserve that honesty," Ashizawa noted. "By leaving the concrete exposed, the interior maintains continuity with the exterior."
Golden accents throughout the cafe pay direct homage to Osaka Castle's famous Golden Tea Room, one of the city's most treasured historical features. Brass was strategically incorporated into the coffee counter, while gold-painted steel appears in pendant lights and subtle golden touches accent wall louvres and door handles. "Inspired by the historical Golden Tea Room of Osaka Castle, these accents bring a quiet sense of elegance and local vibrancy to the interior," the designer explained.
The geometric forms found throughout the space reflect Osaka's architectural heritage in unexpected ways. Triangular shapes reminiscent of Osaka Castle appear in wall louvres and washi paper lamps, while the octagonal form of the city's iconic Tsutenkaku Tower inspired custom tabletops and pendant light shades. "By using polygonal forms throughout, including the coffee counter, we created a rhythmic yet cohesive atmosphere within the space," Ashizawa said.
Traditional Japanese materials add warmth and cultural authenticity to the modern space. The lighting fixtures feature Echizen washi paper from Fukui Prefecture, one of Japan's most renowned handmade papers. "We chose washi paper to express a sense of Japanese identity in a natural way," Ashizawa explained. "The soft, diffused light adds depth and calmness to the space, creating a moment of stillness within the lively city." Wooden furniture by Karimoku complements the paper elements, creating what the architect describes as "a subtle balance between tension and calm – between the city and nature."
The careful material palette demonstrates how contemporary design can honor local culture while meeting modern functional needs. The contrast between concrete, wood, brass, and washi paper creates visual interest without overwhelming the senses, allowing the coffee and conversation to remain the focus of the experience.
This latest Blue Bottle Coffee location represents part of Keiji Ashizawa Design's growing portfolio of culturally sensitive commercial projects. The studio's recent work includes transforming a concrete office into a Tokyo creative hub and designing a fine-dining restaurant in Taipei, all demonstrating their expertise in blending international brands with local design sensibilities.
