BRAND:
IPPODO TEA
YEAR:
2024
EXPERIENCE:
EXPERIENTIAL DESIGN | 3D DESIGN
about.
The Ippodo Tea House is an experiential design project developed in a class led by Bomie Lee from George P. Johnson. Created as an extension of my luxury packaging project for Ippodo, the goal was to design a branded space that offers guests a fully immersive experience. Inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics, the space is centered around a striking tea house structure that draws focus and sets the tone. Guests enter through refined sliding doors and gold signage into a serene, thoughtfully crafted environment that reflects the brand’s essence and narrative.
heritage hall.
When you enter the tea room, you’ll see hints of warm wood tones that create an organic, inviting look, allowing guests to feel a sense of connection to nature. At the center stands Monk Eisai, honoring his role in shaping the history and art of matcha. Throughout the space, I incorporated visual elements that are designed to inform visitors about the art and history of the Japanese tea ceremony as well as the different tools and materials used in making matcha, emphasizing mindfulness and appreciation of the craft behind this tea. The fusion of design and culture will create an unforgettable experience that celebrates both the heritage, history, and modern elegance of matcha.
the tea room.
After experiencing the heritage hall, guests transition into the second space, known as the tea room. Upon entering, guests are expected to remove their shoes and place them on a wooden shoe rack, embracing the practices of a Japanese tea ceremony. The room features low, tiered seating with floor cushions arranged along a staircase-like structure, inviting guests to sit comfortably. The flooring is fully lined with tatami mats, authentic to a traditional tea room design. At the far end, a central, circular window frames a view of the outdoor garden beyond, offering guests a moment of quiet reflection.
Soft, ambient signage along the walls displays the brand name alongside the Enso circle—a symbol of mindfulness and simplicity. Here, guests are welcomed by a tea master, who performs the ritual of preparing matcha with precision and care. Each guest is then served a freshly whisked bowl, inviting them to fully experience the calming and intentional art of matcha. This final space serves as a meditative pause. By inviting guests to slow down, observe, and engage with the mindful preparation of matcha, the tea room becomes more than just a destination. It becomes an experience of presence, harmony, and quiet appreciation.
