Shinmio Tea
Status: Completed - 2021
Team: FDA (Architecture + Interior), Zade Associates (MEP/FP), Reflex Lighting, NAMU (Millwork), S K Builders (G.C.)
Location: Boston, MA
Project Type: Restaurant
Shinmio is a 450-square-foot take-out tea shop where two young owners set out to create a laboratory-like space to experiment with and serve modern teas infused with Chinese influences. Given the compact footprint, the layout had to be meticulously organized to maintain an efficient flow for tea-making and testing. Equally important was the articulation of the main service area, where the tea-making process becomes a focal point of the space.
To create a clean and presentable display area, a dedicated back-of-house section was introduced, allowing tall equipment and the messier aspects of preparation to remain hidden from the main hall. At the same time, the ceiling was strategically lifted to take advantage of any available vertical space within the tightly packed network of utility pipes, HVAC equipment, and ducts, visually expanding the interior.
Building of pyramid ceiling to the bottom of deck above avoiding conflict with utility lines.
