Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo

architechu

Only 6 places in the world -

There are Starbucks stores only in Seattle, Chicago, New York, Shanghai, Milan, and Tokyo. They have a large Reserve store where they showcase everything including roastery in one go. In the past, Starbucks has unveiled the 'Reserve Roastery' store with such anticipation that it even provoked speculation about its entry into Korea in 2021. These stores are different in their class, utilizing an entire building and showcasing various food and beverage cultures such as cafes, bars, and teas.

However, what is most important to me is who they collaborated with to design this space that showcases the brand's grandeur.

This space telling the story of Tokyo's space is the same designer as Tokyo Sunny Hills. It is the work of the world-renowned spatial designer Kengo Kuma, who weaves spaces using wood and materials that are the foundation of that region.

Understanding the physical properties of the materials his works consist of, they are implemented into space through extreme patterning. It is known that he also created a stay in Jeju Island, South Korea. Through photos of his works, such as raising the roof through the basalt of Jeju Island and patterns and structures created by the material of wood, it is evident that the flow of nature is recreated.

Similarly, today's space is realized through the material of wood, which is the main material that he deals with, and through Japanese living and traditional patterns.

As mentioned above, this store, of which there are only 6 in the world, is a space prepared by the brand to strongly convey its grandeur and maximum diverse experiences to customers. Therefore, everyone involved in designing this space and integrating the experience of the space inside it is fully prepared.

Even before entering the front of this space, you can see the raised wood beams protruding into the sky. The repeated thin wood beams create a linear image, which is bundled as a whole, and the surface faces the sky, naturally directing the line of sight towards the sky. Interestingly, the store sign, like Dior's store, is located at the top of the building with a star-shaped logo, showcasing its grandeur. The entrance is huge. It is not easy to open the huge wooden door. Thanks to its difficulty, the view of the space seen from the entrance by opening it gives a sense of achievement.

Upon entering the store, you can see a huge golden barrel. When I asked the staff at the entrance to explain what it was, they told me it was a 'coffee barrel.' This barrel penetrates the floors and continues to capture part of the scene inside the building. While the scene changes on each floor, it also serves as a role in confirming where I am located.

The first floor has coffee sales and a merchandise shop where many people gather.

Even though the second, third, and fourth floors all showcase different food and beverage cultures, it is said that it does not matter where you sit.

The space under the roof seen from the outside is designed as an outdoor space, and seats are provided for enjoying the night view while drinking coffee. The unique ceiling finish seen as you go up the floors is said to be using traditional Japanese craft patterns.

The one who designed this space is known as a great multi-artist, so there are countless works placed all over the world, but it is not common to have such an easy access.

However, as always, with this easy access, there are difficulties in enjoying the pure taste created by the form, pattern, and material. Nevertheless, there is no regret in the way he pursues the composition of space to bring a better brand experience to those who come.

This is the 'Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo,' which is only in 6 places worldwide.

Location _ 2 Chome-19-23 Aobadai, Meguro City, Tokyo 153-0042, Japan

Hours of Operation _ 07-22

Parking available