In a deft fusion of heritage and contemporary design, Blue Bottle Coffee in Kyoto by Schemata Architects, seamlessly integrates West Coast coffee culture within the iconic framework of a Japanese machiya.
Located on the historic approach to Nanzenji Temple in Kyoto, the design skillfully navigates the preservation of traditional elements while embedding a modern spatial ethos rooted in equality and transparency. Central to the architects' vision is the leveling of hierarchies in the café space: the raised floor—characteristic of traditional Japanese structures—was removed, bringing the floor flush with the ground to create a seamless interaction zone. The interior floor, finished with locally inspired terrazzo, extends the pebbled exterior pathway indoors, establishing a contemplative flow that honors both cultural heritage and minimalist design principles.
The spatial layout goes beyond simple material choices, forging an architectural dialogue between past and present. By exposing the machiya’s original clay walls and roof structure, Schemata reveals the building’s layered history while maintaining an aesthetic cohesion that resonates with Blue Bottle’s pared-down, contemporary brand identity. The continuous white terrazzo floor fluidly elevates into counters and seating areas, creating a unified space that maintains an equal relationship between visitors and staff—an aspect emblematic of Blue Bottle’s approach. Upstairs, glass partitions in the office area replace walls, enhancing transparency and linking the floors visually, a nod to the café’s commitment to openness, both socially and architecturally.
