The Lab Saigon has ingeniously reimagined a historic French villa, establishing the Matte Teabar Flagship in a tranquil residential quarter of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This architectural undertaking marries the structure's century-old essence with contemporary design principles, ensuring the inherent character of the building and its serene neighborhood are preserved. Instead of overt commercial signaling, the entrance is subtly indicated by a petite swinging sign adorned with a green feline motif, a nod to the local cat population, thereby seamlessly integrating the establishment into the community's daily fabric.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by an open-air garden space, thoughtfully designed around the villa's existing flora. This courtyard maintains its airy ambiance, enhanced by informal seating arrangements reminiscent of Vietnamese street cafes, fostering an environment conducive to casual conversation and social interaction. Inside the primary edifice, Studio Lab Saigon's design celebrates the villa’s original construction, exposing brickwork and timber roof structures that showcase the building's rich history. Modern architectural elements, such as monolithic blocks forming the bar counter and interior dividers, are introduced to create a striking contrast with the rustic textures, defining new functional zones while honoring the old.
An auxiliary space, dedicated to tea ceremonies and educational workshops, offers a more secluded atmosphere, distinct from the bustling garden and bar areas. This dedicated tea room is configured to facilitate demonstrations and tasting sessions, highlighting the intricate artistry of tea preparation. Illumination is provided by a bespoke pendant light, echoing the form of a chasen, a traditional bamboo whisk, thereby reinforcing the deep connection to tea culture and focusing attention on the meticulous preparation process.