R&D Lab for Shan Tea

The independent tea Lab and office accommodate critical R&D operations supporting Shan Tea's productive operations. Inside, rigorous product development is carried out - tea samples inspected and new mixtures and flavour combinations are analysed and evolved, resulting in an ever-expanding product line.

A systematic storage archive line two sides of the space, with custom-designed storage cabinets to accommodate hundreds of raw tea and mixed tea samples. Here, tea samples and products representing different production regions, micro-climates and time periods are systematically inspected, taste-tested and recorded. The materiality is minimal and pristine. Surfaces can be easily maintained. A central lab counter incorporates neatly all the necessary water supply, purification, and instant water heating equipment. Abundant natural light is augmented by artificial light boxes, offering an ideal well-lit environment for the visual inspection of tea. Yet a sense of rusticity and warmth, is offered by the use of light-colored OSB wood panels in archive cabinets. Custom made brass handle bars and copper-toned stainless steel display shelving provides a touch of precision in finishing details.