The Essence of Japan in Madrid’s Salesas District
Yoyogi Matcha House is located in the heart of Madrid’s Salesas district, serving as the second location for a brand that has successfully transformed matcha culture into a complete sensory experience.
From the outset, the project's objective was to translate the values that define Yoyogi—tranquillity, simplicity and authenticity—into a physical space. More than designing a café, the challenge was to create an environment capable of conveying the essence of Japan through architecture, materiality and the customer experience.
The intervention begins with a deep respect for the site's existing identity. Original features such as the wooden flooring and the distinctive structural columns—some cast iron, others timber—have been preserved and restored to shape the new proposal. These elements, so characteristic of the traditional architecture of Salesas, remain fully exposed, bringing character, history and a sense of continuity to the space.
The layout takes advantage of the property's unique characteristics to create a sequence of clearly differentiated environments. A stepped seating platform at the rear establishes a strong focal point from the entrance, while two main counters organise the Yoyogi experience around two complementary worlds: the Matcha Corner and the Coffee Corner.
One of the project's most distinctive features is the Okame, a large-scale sculpture developed in collaboration with local artists. An iconic figure in Japanese culture, Okame symbolises joy, prosperity and good fortune. Its presence anchors the space and becomes a defining element of the project's identity, connecting the interior with the cultural roots of the brand.
The combination of natural materials, a calm colour palette and a thoughtful intervention on the existing architecture creates a warm and contemplative atmosphere, where every design decision contributes to reinforcing Yoyogi's philosophy.
The result is a space that finds balance between Madrid and Japan, between contemporary and traditional influences, transforming an everyday visit into a moment of calm within the city.