FinlAYs Coffee
Design FYI was appointed by Finlays Beverages to design and build their Coffee Tasting Lab. The tasting and lab space was designed as a dual-purpose environment, balancing technical functionality with a more immersive client experience.
The design moves away from a purely back-of-house lab, introducing a more open and engaging setting where clients can actively participate in the tasting process. At the same time, it supports the precision and efficiency required for daily operations.
COFFEE TASTING & LAB
At the centre of the space, a series of curved counters define the tasting area, creating a natural flow around the room. The geometry encourages interaction while maintaining clear working zones for staff.
The counters are finished with vertically profiled tiling, adding texture and rhythm, contrasted by dark worktops that provide durability for intensive use and aid during the tasting process. Integrated seating and curved benching introduce a softer, more welcoming layer, allowing the space to shift easily between formal tasting sessions and more relaxed client interactions and presentations.
Above, a suspended timber ceiling installation introduces movement and depth. The radial arrangement of slatted elements draws focus toward the centre of the space, while also improving acoustic performance. Pendant light fittings are carefully positioned to provide focused illumination without disrupting the overall composition.
FEATURE WALL
A key element of the space is the bespoke feature wall, which anchors the environment and reinforces the global nature of the brand.
Created using Venetian plaster, the wall is built up through multiple layers to achieve both texture and depth. A base layer establishes a soft, matte surface, onto which the world map is formed through tonal variations and subtle relief. Darker areas highlight key regions, referencing the origins of the coffee, while lighter tones maintain balance across the composition. This approach transforms the wall into an integrated, tactile surface rather than a graphic application, allowing it to sit naturally within the interior.