Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur-based architecture practice Spacemen Studio has created the interior design for a cafe inspired by the intricate ritual of matcha preparation in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Named Niko Neko 5.0, the 50-square-metre space has an eye-catching hand-dyed fabric ceiling installation. 

The smooth elegance of silk floating in the air and the lovely swirl of whisked matcha are captured by these flowing layers that move rhythmically overhead.

Artist Duniamotif paints the fabric in a range of greens, from vivid matcha tones to deep forest hues, with delicate gradients that change like an aurora's glowing light. 

According to the studio, the fabric mimics matcha's natural change from a deep green powder to a light, frothy solution during whisking. 

The fabric's sweeping motion, which is intended to resemble the flowing motions of a bamboo whisk, emphasizes the ceremonial, meditative aspect of matcha-making. 

The translucency of the fabric is enhanced by soft, diffused lighting, which enables it to change tone throughout the day in an approach reminiscent of the always shifting sky.

The sleek, contemporary design of the cafe emphasizes simplicity and workmanship, offering a grounded contrast beneath this floating installation. 

To give the area a sleek, laboratory-like precision, the entire bar counter and surrounding walls are covered in vertical aluminum profiles. 

In addition to reflecting the minimalist philosophy of Japanese tea culture, this usage of aluminum upholds a feeling of order, sophistication, and subdued intensity. 

A layer of quiet dynamism is added to the space by the tactile rhythm of the profiles, while its delicate sheen combines with the lighting to evoke the pristine, clean atmosphere of a matcha atelier.

Similar to observing the silent movement of the aurora in the night sky, the tranquil and immersive setting allows visitors to appreciate matcha's beauty both visually and sensorially.

Spacemen created a retail store & spa that references sand dunes and the tranquil allure of an oasis in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In addition, the studio created a restaurant that references to "primordial community cooking" in Kuala Lumpur.

Project facts

Project name: Niko Neko 5.0

Client: Niko Neko

Architects: Spacemen Studio

Lead Architects: Edward Tan

Team: Efron Chen, Efron Chan, Dylan Keh

Project location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Completion year: 2025

Gross Built Area (square meters): 50m2

All images © David Yeow Photography.

> via Spacemen Studio

cafe green interior design matcha