Gen Sou En occupies a stretch of storefront in the suburb of Brookline, Massachusetts, an area populated by college students from nearby universities.

A skylight hovers above a tree and several rattan womb chairs outfitted with pink cushions.

In a communal dining room, seating is inspired by George Nakashima and the Windsor chair—a nod to the location.

Charred wood walls define a separate seating area of the tea house.

Geometric shapes and Japanese techniques like shou sugi ban elevate the design of the café.

The designer created a series of circular architectural pieces that serve as rooms to break up the large area, this one finished in Japanese plaster.

Suzumori’s favorite space, the tea ceremony room at the back, boasts exposed brick to emphasize the traditional character of Boston.