In an emerging residential area of Bien Hoa, Vietnam, adjacent to the Amata Bien Hoa Industrial Park, NAM Coffee quietly stands within a garden rich in historical context. This café is not only a retreat for customers but also a prime example of the interplay between architectural art and natural landscapes.

The semi-outdoor seating area resembles a hidden garden, offering a striking contrast to the bustling city. Inside cylindrical structures made of red bricks, guests savor their coffee embraced by the shade of trees, enjoying moments of tranquility.

Warm light filters through meticulously designed brick perforations, casting a glow on wooden tables and chairs, and adding a touch of poetry to this mushroom-shaped architecture.

Leica, a legendary brand in the eyes of photography enthusiasts, has arrived in New York to open its flagship store and gallery (Leica Store and Gallery Meatpacking District NYC). The building was designed by the American architectural firm Format Architecture Office. The store is located in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District on the west side, an area that retains the old-world atmosphere of former meatpacking plants while also hosting various artists. This combination has made it a hotspot for trendy boutiques and unique shops, giving the district a distinct character. Naturally, when this historic German brand decided to establish itself in New York City, this artsy neighborhood became the obvious choice.

The Leica store was originally a modest 1950s meat market building that had fallen into disrepair. It was one of the few small structures remaining in the area and stood as a rare exception amidst the district’s urban redevelopment. The design team transformed this two-story building, with a street frontage of less than six meters, into an enchanting structure featuring a cream-colored perforated brick façade.

The latest architectural renovation and interior design project led by BUZZ — Jinshang OCC Restaurant in Nanjing’s Gulou District — officially opened for business at the end of last year. The project began in mid-2023 and took a year to complete.

Tojiro Co., Ltd., a renowned knife manufacturer from Tsubame City in Niigata Prefecture, originates from one of Japan’s three major cutlery and tableware production centers, Sanjo and Tsubame. In March 2024, Tojiro opened its first direct store in the Kansai region.
Osaka, Japan’s second-largest city, serves as the economic hub of the Kansai area and is world-famous for its rich culinary culture. By opening a direct store in this food capital, Tojiro clearly aims to promote its high-quality knives to more consumers who value the art of cooking. Yoshihito Katata, principal of KATATA YOSHIHITO DESIGN, fully understood the vision of Tojiro’s president, Susumu Fujita. Skillfully blending traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern design concepts, Katata created a unique space that not only showcases the exceptional quality of Tojiro knives but also allows customers to deeply experience the culture of Japanese cutlery.