Mexican architecture firm Worc Studio has unveiled a minimalist boba tea shop in Mexico City, characterized by a unique translucent vertical “tunnel” through which drinks are served. Nestled in the Colonia Renacimiento neighborhood, the compact Yoozoo shop is set within a colonial building, drawing attention with its inviting glow.
The traditional exterior of the shop, featuring plaster facades and exposed stone trims, contrasts with the modern, minimalist interior. “The exterior facade is integrated into a typical colonial building that radiates a minimalist charm, leading customers into a captivating polycarbonate tunnel filled with soft light,” explained Worc Studio.
Specializing exclusively in boba tea, the shop offers a variety of the Taiwanese drink made from tea, milk, water, sugar, and tapioca pearls. The customer area is limited to a small, double-height space directly in front of the door, emphasizing a streamlined and efficient design.
“Occupying a small space, the design concept revolves around creating a journey for visitors, combining modern aesthetics with functionality,” the studio stated.
Visitors step down two steps from the street into a vertical polycarbonate tunnel that curves to enclose the space on three sides. A circular light fixture illuminates the translucent plastic, highlighting a single blue-stone stool in the center.
“Customers are invited to interact with the space, selecting their preferred boba tea flavors and capturing moments of joy with friends or loved ones against the vibrant interior,” Worc Studio added.
The shop features two black-ringed portholes on either side for placing and collecting orders. Behind the scenes, the Yoozoo team operates in a U-shaped area around the central tunnel, with counters and shelves efficiently arranged for preparation.
“The station behind the tunnel is designed to be efficient, with a streamlined counter and all necessary kitchen equipment,” noted Worc Studio.
Street-facing windows provide glimpses into the preparation area, though digital menu boards and decorative wrought-iron railings obscure much of the view. This ironwork is echoed in the contemporary design of the window frames and the Yoozoo logo, both inside and out.
Mexico City is known for its creative dining and drinking spaces, such as a recently opened fast-casual restaurant with wavy green metal mesh over exposed concrete walls. Similarly, the playful nature of the bubble tea concept is reflected in the Yoozoo shop, reminiscent of a London café where tiers of cork seating surround brightly colored tables.
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