Thanks to the craftsmanship and creativity of artisans, Taiwan’s native wood species are quietly making their way back into daily life. Among them, Taiwan Red Cypress stands out as one of the most representative domestic timbers, valued for its distinctive fragrance and stable wood properties. Used extensively in architecture, furniture, and interior design, this beautiful material tells its own story in Now Coffee, a renovated heritage house nestled in the Beimen Roundabout of Tainan.
As part of the "Wood for a Better Life" initiative, jointly launched by the Taiwan Forestry Bureau and the National Taiwan Craft Research and Development Institute, Now Coffee integrates high-quality local woods such as Taiwan Red Cypress, Acacia, and Mahogany into its interior design, breathing new life into this historical building.
A Harmonious Blend of Old and New in a Heritage Café
The renovation of this historic house preserves its original terrazzo flooring, staircase, and handcrafted ceiling moldings, while incorporating large glass windows and minimalist furniture in a monochrome palette of black, white, and gray. This modern aesthetic serves as a neutral backdrop, allowing the warm tones of Taiwan Red Cypress to stand out. The result is a space that is both visually layered and naturally fragrant, enriched by the subtle scent of the wood.
Ascending to the second floor, visitors are greeted by a stunning transformation. The walls, tables, window-side counters, storage cabinets, and magazine racks are all crafted from Taiwan Red Cypress, showcasing the natural beauty of this wood. With its lightweight yet durable nature, fine grain, and resistance to decay, Taiwan Red Cypress is an ideal material for interior design. As sunlight filters through the windows and casts shifting shadows on the wooden surfaces, it creates a serene, almost forest-like ambiance—an invitation to slow down and appreciate the warmth of nature.
Revitalizing Taiwan's Domestic Timber Industry
Despite Taiwan's rich forestry resources, the domestic timber industry has faced decline due to historical overlogging and the 1991 nationwide logging ban. As a result, Taiwan's self-sufficiency rate for timber remains below 5%. However, Taiwan Red Cypress has been at the forefront of the government's Domestic Timber Promotion Plan, gradually making a comeback in the furniture, architectural, and interior design sectors.
Since 2017, the Taiwanese government has been actively promoting sustainable forestry management, including planned afforestation, selective thinning, and carbon sequestration efforts. These initiatives aim to ensure that native species, such as Taiwan Red Cypress, can thrive for generations to come.
Savoring the Aroma of Wood and Coffee
Now Coffee's meticulous design extends beyond its interiors to its carefully curated coffee and light meals. The café specializes in medium-light roast coffee, preserving the natural flavors of the beans. A must-try is the Miaoli Longan Honey Latte, where the rich aroma of natural honey blends seamlessly with the smooth taste of coffee, creating an unforgettable experience.
Seated at a long table made of Taiwan Red Cypress, guests can appreciate the delicate wood grain beneath their fingertips while savoring their coffee. It's a multisensory experience, where touch, scent, and taste come together in harmony, evoking the tranquil essence of a forest.
Every wooden element in Now Coffee, from the window-side counter to the handcrafted coffee trays, reflects the design potential and natural beauty of Taiwan's domestic wood. Beyond aesthetics, the presence of Taiwan Red Cypress in the space subtly reconnects visitors with the warmth and serenity of the island’s forests.
Bringing Domestic Timber Back into Everyday Life
As Taiwan's Domestic Timber Promotion Plan reintroduces native wood species into public consciousness, Now Coffee stands as a testament to this movement. These locally sourced materials are more than just valuable natural resources — they embody sustainability, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage.
So, when you step into Now Coffee, take a moment to run your fingers along the wooden textures, inhale the delicate aroma of Taiwan Red Cypress, and let yourself be immersed in the quiet story of Taiwan's forests—one that is seamlessly woven into daily life.
