2050 Coffee is a minimalist self-service coffee shop in Kyoto designed to raise awareness about sustainability issues surrounding the future of the drink.
According to architecture and interiors firm Teki Design, the coffee shop aims to interrogate "the 2050 coffee problem" ? the fact that there could be a global scarcity of coffee the year 2050.
Teki Design created the interiors for 2050 Coffee in Kyoto
"Climate change might lead to a decrease in areas suitable for coffee cultivation," Teki Design founder Tatsuya Nishinaga told Dezeen.
"The current practice of enjoying the drink at coffee shops may become more of a luxury," added the designer.
The cafe features self-service machines
In response, Teki Design wanted to create a stripped-back interior for the cafe, where customers come and "learn about the future of coffee". 2050 Coffee is spread over two open-plan levels and features large rectilinear windows on its facade, which reveal a monochrome interior.
Polycarbonate counters display the machines
Inside, smooth grey walls create a backdrop for curved and illuminated counters made from corrugated polycarbonate sheets, chosen for their "inexpensive and familiar" qualities.
"While this material is often used for shed roofs due to its low cost and accessibility, it reflects light beautifully," said Tatsuya.
A small seating area features at one end of the ground floor
The counters display brightly lit self-servi...