Taiwanese architecture and interior design studio Republic Design has completed a small coffee shop and gallery in Taiwan, featuring curvy and white-colored elements.

Called Kuan-Yan Gallery, the 39-square-metre space is designed as a new approach to traditional cafes or art galleries concepts, which is more likely presented by an artistic way.

The gallery & cafe is comprised of white shelves, service bar, seatings and a small configurable table wrapped by metal lattice. Fundamentally the lengthy narrow shaped shop lot is hidden between buildings and alleys which is not given much natural sunlight.

Thus, the architects tried to break through the ordinary narrow layout with more curvy and variable elements. "We also do believe that a minimalist environment does not equal to simple and dull," said the studio.

On the contrary, it is definitely including certain aesthetically elements, alongside with flexibility space, flexibility pathways, and variable interactions possibilities. 

Viewing from the entrance, both sides of the lengthy walls given the opportunities to organized as display areas. Hanging rails are installed in the flat white wall which can be hanging variable size of art paintings. 

On the opposite wall, the studio created a large grid frame which is able to place and connect with the portable racks, and hanging art works.

On the other hand, the curvy-look coffee bar physically given out more space for the display area, as well as to enlarge the look of the narrow-like shop house. 

"Apparently, there is no certain title nor adjective to describe a certain artwork," added the studio. 

"Thus, instead of labeling areas or spaces with designated titles, we believe that areas can be labeling itself by various behaviors and objects, with different arrangements by movable steel poles which are designed with track and wheels."

Floor plan

Section A

Section B

Project facts

Project name: Kuan-Yan Gallery 

Architects: Republic Design 

Location: Taiwan 

Size: 39m2

Date: 2019

All images © Hey!cheese photography

All drawings © Republic Design

> via Republic Design