Location: Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi
Client: The Matcha Tokyo
Design by: 4SPACE
A Minimalist Sanctuary Rooted in Japanese Ritual
Designed by 4SPACE, The Matcha Tokyo is a contemporary café that reimagines the spirit of Japanese tea culture for the modern world. Located inside Yas Mall, one of Abu Dhabi’s most high-traffic retail destinations, this project offers an immersive, calming space that embodies the core values of matcha: purity, ritual, and natural wellness.
The design begins with a soft, arched façade that gently separates the café from the bustling surroundings. Inside, a central bonsai tree placed beneath a skylight creates a moment of pause — grounding the space in nature and tradition.
Above, a standout feature: an undulating wooden ceiling inspired by the layered geometry of traditional kiritsuma (gabled) Japanese roofs. These architectural ribs create a flowing rhythm that draws visitors inward and evokes the breath-like cadence of tea preparation.
The material palette is warm and tactile: natural wood, green glass tables that reflect the color of matcha, stone for contrast, and shoji-inspired textures for softness. Every element was carefully selected to promote calm and sensory clarity.
Spatial planning encourages fluid movement — with curved counters that invite open interaction and a layout that supports both takeaway efficiency and sit-down serenity. Seating options range from communal benches to private nooks, all seamlessly integrated into the architecture.
The Matcha Tokyo is more than just a café. It’s a contemporary retreat where thoughtful design and cultural authenticity meet — offering visitors not just a drink, but a moment of stillness in the middle of the city.