Matchaya Tiong Bahru

The space for Matchaya is conceived as a calm refuge for the neighbourhood. Located in a ground floor unit in the Tiong Bahru neighbourhood in Singapore, it is intended to be a place to slow down and linger. The design takes its cues from the ritual of matcha, the brisk, circular motion of the whisk, and the soft swirl of milk folding into a latte. These gestures are made most visible overhead, where layered, curving ceiling panels ripple through the space in bands of light, tracing the whisking motion and gently marking the transition from one zone to the next. Clean lines, soft curves, and a considered material palette of off-white, deep green, with accents of wood, terrazzo and stainless steel carry this dialogue between calm and craft, suggesting the richness and lightness of the matcha experience through a tactile warmth.

At the front, the seating area is light and open, finished in an off-white palette awashed with bright daylight coming in through the glass facade. In the middle, the matcha counter, finished in green terrazzo and stainless steel anchors the space. The matcha making process unfolds in full view, warmed by the glow of paper lantern pendants hanging above. Alongside, a selection of pastries and baked goods are presented as accompaniments to the matcha. A retail wall of tiled lined shelving, displays Matchaya's teas and packaged goods,

Further back, the mood at the dedicated matcha workshop area shifts, forming a counterpoint to the front areas. The atmosphere is dimmer and more intimate, with the walls finished in deep green stained wood veneer, modulated with arched frames lining the space, where guests can learn about matcha and its preparation.