Tucked into Tokyo’s vibrant center, the Ogawa Coffee Laboratory by Yusuke Seki Studio offers more than a typical cafe visit—it’s a carefully designed space where coffee lovers can engage deeply with every stage of coffee creation.
At the heart of Ogawa Coffee Laboratory lies its defining feature, the 'KURA bean cellar. Designed as both a focal point and a functional space, this striking storage area not only houses the beans but also invites patrons into a close encounter with coffee’s origins. Positioned alongside a meticulous drip coffee counter, the KURA encourages guests to observe and appreciate the craft of coffee preparation, transforming a visit here into a live, sensory experience.
The design by Yusuke Seki emphasizes simplicity and texture, using lauan plywood with an ‘Uzukuri’ finish—a traditional Japanese technique that highlights the grain and depth of the wood. Natural light plays across these surfaces, creating a dynamic effect that changes with the time of day, subtly enhancing the mood of the space. The counter’s underside, lined with Japanese ‘Washi’ paper introduces an unexpected softness, balancing the clean lines of the cafe with a hint of cultural warmth.
Whether you’re a dedicated coffee enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the Ogawa Coffee Laboratory offers a thoughtful way to explore coffee, with each detail designed to highlight the experience of Tokyo’s coffee culture.
