The Story of Leaves Café – A Space Born from Passion

Leaves Café was never part of the original plan. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision, one of those rare creative impulses that felt so right, it had to be pursued. What started as a simple retail space transformation quickly turned into something deeply personal—a place of gathering, warmth, and curated beauty.

The journey began with a single black panel wall, an existing architectural feature that became the root of the design. Leaves, as a brand, has always been about timeless elegance with a contemporary touch, and I wanted the café to embody that essence. As I sat there for two hours, envisioning how to reshape the space, the concept naturally evolved.

I drew inspiration from British Colonial interiors, a style that balances raw, rustic textures with refined, classic elements. The café was meant to feel organic yet sophisticated, intimate yet expansive. To bring life into the space, I suspended lush greenery across the ceiling, weaving an ambiance of warmth and nature. The walls were reimagined with French paneling, creating an inviting, home-like coziness.

The furniture was a mix of carefully selected pieces—reupholstered, mismatched, yet harmonized in color and texture. Lighting became a defining element, enhancing every curated corner, casting the perfect glow over conversations and quiet moments. The biggest challenge came when we needed to physically divide the café and retail area, ensuring both spaces could thrive while maintaining a seamless flow. A custom-made partition in solid oak wood was crafted—heavy, substantial, and detailed to perfection, embedded with a mirror to reflect the space and create the illusion of openness.

Finally, I designed a patio overflowing with greenery, carefully selecting tropical plants with hints of French influence, creating a tranquil escape where time slows down. Leaves Café became more than just a café; it became a reflection of passion, spontaneity, and the beauty of blending styles and stories into a singular, unforgettable experience.