Gwee Coffee & More

Down The Rabbit Hole

Located at the intersection of Tai Ping Shan Street and Square Street, Gwee Coffee & More is a community-driven cafe amidst the heart of Sheung Wan's PoHo neighbourhood. Known for its innovative meringue art and artisanal coffee, Gwee’s shop design aims to deliver a holistic cafe experience and a cosy environment for both humans and pets alike.

House of Forme worked with the client on their interior & experience design, project management, brand environments and art direction.

Creating a Sense of Curiosity

Our concept for the design bears homage to the story of Alice in Wonderland. The coffee shop's whimsical front, which features intermittent windows in irregular organic shapes, is enhanced by textured special paint and sturdy timber frames. The shop's striking front not only alludes to the story's rabbit holes but also piques passersby's curiosity by allowing them to take a peek inside to see what wonders are taking place both during the day and at night.

The shop's corner features an oval sign with an embedded globe that can be seen from any angle and highlights the special collaboration between Gwee and Tsukimi Bakery.

A Whimsical Spatial Experience

Visitors are greeted with a warm, spacious environment when they arrive. To observe and appreciate the intricate delicacies, they can take a comfortable seat in the open, at the bench seating area across from the bar, or at the large bar counter. Our bar design, which is purposefully located in the middle of the shop, facilitates contact between customers and the staff. Overhead, a feature timber ceiling of curved, mushroom-shaped inspired panels form a visually striking presence. With a large opal globe lamp pendant that centres the POS and cake display. A metallic board in the shape of a pill serves as both the menu and merchandise display behind the bar and features replaceable magnetic letters for ease and effectiveness.

Combining Functionality with Aesthetics

Our bespoke designs deliver both functionality and aesthetics in playful detail, featuring an interchangeable display system for different exhibitions and retail products accented by metal mesh to add dimension and texture to the ceiling. Shop signages are imbued with a homely and rustic touch, a sensation emphasised by the interior's pastel colour palette and fungi inspired furniture that invite guests into the wonderland of Gwee.