Niceworkshop’s Neo-Naturalism Design for HaHouse Cafe 

Niceworkshop, led by Hyunseog Oh, has reimagined HaHouse Cafe in Seoul’s Itaewon district, blending urban and natural elements in a minimalist interior. 

Design Concept 

The design integrates concrete, metal, and wood to create a harmonious space that reflects both modern urbanity and natural textures. Concrete walls and ceilings were stamped with wood grain patterns, and stainless-steel furnishings were etched with similar textures to mimic wood, drawing from the Neo-Naturalism furniture series. 

Materials and Aesthetics 

Concrete surfaces in the cafe are finished with wood grain impressions, while the stainless-steel furniture, including tables and chairs, features a wood grain texture engraved with a Dremel tool. The cafe’s serving counter and utility spaces are clad in satin-finished aluminium. Custom sanded doors with reflective surfaces contrast with the space’s raw materials, creating a dynamic interplay between artificial and real nature. 

Furniture and Fixtures 

Furniture, including tables and stools from the Neo-Naturalism series, is crafted from solid ash and red oak, adding warmth to the space. The NN stools, designed to mimic timber logs, and custom lights contribute to the cohesive aesthetic. 

Objective 

The design aims to offer a unique spatial experience that bridges the gap between modernity and nature, creating a cultural space that appeals to a diverse audience. 

Photos: HaHouse Cafe

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