The new Innovation and Technology Center of a world-renowned coffee company has officially opened in Shenzhen’s Hetao district—a place where history, culture, and cutting-edge technology converge to inspire creativity.

During the initial narrative and design phase, our team discovered a fascinating local story: Hetao, located near the Shenzhen/Hong Kong border, is historically tied to the first introduction of coffee to China. Originally called “架啡 - Ka fe” in the Guangdong dialect, it is now known as “咖啡 - Kafei” in Mandarin. This rich cultural heritage became central to the project’s narrative and inspired the center’s design concept.

Spanning two floors, the Innovation Hub is where partners develop and test the latest technologies to digitalize the coffee process from “Byte to Cup.”

This concept is expressed throughout the space via a series of interactive installations and carefully curated artworks, including repurposed aprons and coffee bean bags integrated into the interiors. Over 200 unique artworks fill the environment, creating a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere.

Flexibility and adaptability were key principles in the design. Modular ceilings allow enclosed spaces to transform effortlessly from meeting rooms to private offices or other functions, ensuring the hub can evolve alongside the company’s needs. Thoughtfully designed amenities, such as an IT help desk, gym, mock-up store, and multiple shared areas, showcase the company’s care for its partners’ comfort, productivity, and well-being.

Every detail of the space—from the interactive installations to the carefully chosen materials—tells a story of innovation, history, and culture. The center not only supports the development of the latest coffee technologies but also creates

a living, flexible environment where curiosity and creativity thrive.

The result is more than an office or lab; it is a dynamic ecosystem, celebrating the journey of coffee from its first introduction to China to the digital, ready-to-drink innovations of today.

From the first byte to the perfect cup, this space embodies passion, technology, and culture, offering a truly inspiring environment for all who enter.