蜜葉裡Ambrosia is a new bubble tea brand and shop in an up-and-coming area of Shenzhen, China. The design of venue and brand, conceived by Australian practice Biasol, appeals to fashionable, modern and mindful tea drinkers with a material and color palette as sweet and refreshing as bubble tea. Wanting to share an authentic taste of tea without the use of sugar, 蜜葉裡Ambrosia uses sensory loose-leaf teas and the finest natural honey.
蜜葉裡, meaning “honey leaf,” refers to the use of honey instead of sugar, and ambrosia, in ancient Greek myths, is the food or drink of the gods, conferring longevity or immortality.
The unique and impactful space has handcrafted techniques and a distinctive aesthetic to appeal to the modern and mindful tea drinker. The minimalist form is based on the traditional Chinese courtyard houses and architectural gateways to achieve a sense of flow, while the soft pink palette creates a calming, sensory experience.
Wooden arches with opaque glass panels frame the entry and service counter and are a contemporary nod to the traditional Chinese gateway, paifang. The long and narrow interior evokes the courtyard in historical siheyuanresidences, where enclosed courtyards provide intimacy for family and friends. Rounded corners soften the feel of the long and narrow space, with a menu affixed to the wall at one end, and an upholstered banquette at the other end. The service counter is in the centre with all tea making taking place behind the scenes.
The light and feminine palette draws inspiration from pale earthy tones and timber textures. Fibonacci Stone’s “Pavlova” terrazzo on the floors, counter, tables and walls are an aggregate of sensory and calming tones with flesh, blush and salmon hues. Pendant lights above the counter are like bubbles rising to the surface, and a neon white light – “Be my best cup of tea” – reiterates the lifestyle that 蜜葉裡Ambrosia represents. Not just another bubble tea, 蜜葉裡Ambrosia is the best cup of bubble tea that life has to offer.
