Header: Xie Yingjian
Inside the rigid order of life in such a big city as Shanghai, the design of the Velvi Tea & Spirits creates a sense of ease. Rich with organic forms and earthy tones, the design reminiscent of Planet Pandora channels the beauty of nature, particularly rubble, plants, and soil. By intertwining the nature-inspired design with the pleasures of drinking tea, coffee, and wine, the space provides a gentle contrast to everyday life.
The design that engages all the senses
The simple design by Murong Design includes a single tea table and several simple vessels. Between growing plants and strict concrete tones, the design allows the natural rhythm to flow. Deconstructing conventional geometry, the design evokes emotions that draw directly to the soul. Meandering curves connect every part of the design. Reminiscent of a cave, the venue appears as an infinitely unfolding transition through an array of “islands“. The combination of tea aroma, wine dreams, music, and the company of books engages all the senses, allowing the users to embark on a soul-cleansing journey.
The interplay of warm light and cold concrete walls
By juxtaposing the cold walls with vibrant vegetation and aromas, the tea-and-wine lounge blurs the line between illusion and reality, allowing the viewers to dissociate themselves from the environment. This twilight emotion is further emphasised by the light that moves through the space in harmony. The warm, muted lighting paints the concrete walls into rustic, tranquil tones, embodying natural vitality through simplicity.
Piercing through the opening of the outside world, the light and weather change as if the outside world were covered in a gentle, delicate, and calm white gaze. The interplay of light and shadow unfolds an aesthetic charm of wood grain, weaves, and sand-textured concrete. Seats resemble natural stones scattered along the stream of light, residing in balance with the surroundings.
Voids and recessed niches
Recessed niches serve both as decorative displays and empty spaces that evoke subtle contemplation. Wooden tables support minimalist forms and a balanced colour palette, highlighting the material’s authentic character—a beam of light streams down, featuring a mottled texture of a mature face full of wisdom.
The solid concrete and voids merge to create an ethereal ambience. Sensory experiences are amplified to create a tranquil atmosphere and communication of emotions. In addition to private rooms, the lounge features open areas with a theatre-inspired design that can host events and performances.
With its fluid form, lush vegetation, and carefully designed lighting, the Velvi Tea & Spirits lounge is a peaceful haven locked in the shiny vanity of urban life. In this peaceful corner, while sipping wine, coffee, or delicately flavoured tea, life returns to simplicity.
Technical sheet
Project Name: Velvi Tea & Spirits
Location: Shanghai, China
Interior Design: Murong Design
Lead Designer: Li Lingbo
Interior Area: 393 sqm
Completion date: 2025
Photography: Xie Yingjian
