Chinese design and research practice Some Thoughts has completed interior design for 3½coffee in Shanghai, China. 

Located in the Xuhui District of Shanghai, the project is a profound exploration of balance, both in its inclusive essence and its diverse commercial offerings.

In the bustling streets of Shanghai, where life intertwines with social interactions, we find the enchanting 3½ store nestled on Taiyuan Road. 

The facade of 3½ boasts a grand scale, yet the studio has chosen a restrained approach in the selection of materials, the design of the entrance, and the signage. 

Some Thoughts's intention is to seamlessly blend the architecture into the fabric of the street, welcoming each visitor with an almost organic embrace.

At the entrance, the designers have crafted a space that invites a momentary pause. It serves as a sanctuary where visitors can linger in a state of emotional anticipation, foreshadowing the extraordinary sensory journey that awaits them.

Every aspect of the spatial organization and flow revolves around the art of conversation. A captivating L-shaped bar counter gracefully traverses the entire expanse, becoming the focal point for sensory encounters with products and services. 

Some Thoughts has transformed the exploration of symbolic representation in commercial design into a profound understanding of the sensory dimensions. This is achieved through the preservation of design language and the seamless integration of behavioral patterns.

Ascending the spiral staircase, the second floor unfolds as a multifaceted sanctuary. Here, visitors are immersed in an ambiance that effortlessly blends the professionalism of a chef's kitchen with an atmosphere of relaxation. 

This space is not only a realm for daily operations but also a hub for product development, industry sharing, and occasional gatherings, where authenticity and creativity converge.

The interplay of "organic resin" and "fiberglass" in a rhythmic dance of mixing, solidification, and polishing creates a texture that exudes an enchanting tapestry of randomness and interconnectedness. 

Harnessing the harmonious interplay between nature and human ingenuity, we have endeavored to strike a delicate balance between the architectural structure and the surrounding natural elements, allowing them to coexist in perfect harmony.

3½, a name that encapsulates the essence of our vision, with "3" representing the pursuit of "excellent coffee," and "½" symbolizing our relentless quest for coffee quality that transcends mere excellence. 

In this realm, SomeThoughts firmly believes that the space need not conform to fleeting trends or vie for attention. 

Instead, it gracefully unfolds over time, captivating hearts and minds with its timeless allure.

Floor plans

Side view

Side view

Project facts

Project name: 3½coffee

Location: No. 1, Lane 305, Taiyuan Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai

Architects: Some Thoughts Spatial Design Studio

Lead Designer: Li Jingze

Designers: Xie Zhen, Jin Qiang

Project Owner: Shanghai OPS Catering Management Co., Ltd.

Interior Area: 100m2

Design Period: 08/2022-10/2022

Construction Period: 11/2022-4/2023

All images © SFAP.

All drawings © Some Thoughts Spatial Design Studio.

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