EXCLUSIVE: The Perfect Third Space in San Juan ft: A.bode Space
Whether you're in need of a photo studio, a conference room, a good playlist, or just a solid cup of coffee, A.bode Space is the perfect third space to be.
Words Gabriel Padilla
Photos courtesy of A.bode Space
July 18, 2025
In the busy yet homey streets of San Juan, you might stumble upon a house that both figuratively and literally welcomes all. A.bode Space is a creative haven founded by four close friends—Joma Ochoa, Kaki Reyes, Gelo Uy, and JD Tan—who turned their shared vision into a space where creatives can go wild, disconnect or reconnect, and most importantly, just hang out in their humble abode.
Filled with mementos from their own homes, personal collections, and a charmingly mismatched aesthetic, the space reflects a blend of life experiences, personal taste, and deep sentimental value. For the A.bode crew, café culture shouldn’t be about commercialization—it should be deeply personal.
Friends, Foundation, and Flavor
Launched at the start of 2025, A.bode Space is already making waves with its warm aesthetic, quality drinks, and reputation as a creative sanctuary. What began as a simple hangout in one of their homes has blossomed into a vibrant, passion-driven business. Brought to life by creative minds, business-savvy thinkers, and—most importantly—passionate home brewers, A.bode was born out of a deep love for coffee, community, and the power of shared space.
These pandemic-era coffee brewers and creative entrepreneurs built their vision on friendship, artistry, and a strong sense of belonging to create something they could truly call their own.
Not a Café, but a Third Space
The term “third space” refers to a social environment outside of home (the first place) and work (the second). It’s where people gather, connect, and feel a sense of belonging.
A.bode Space brings that very spirit to life. Beyond well-loved drinks like their mango espresso, dirty matcha, or matcha sea salt, A.bode offers more than just coffee. It fosters collaboration, creativity, and connection.
The space features photo studios for portfolio shoots and creative projects, co-working areas for those needing a break from the usual routine, and even music equipment for audiophiles chasing their next sound. Here, you’re not just welcome to stay—you’re encouraged to create and make the space your own.
Full of Character
With so many coffee shops popping up around San Juan, A.bode stands out—not just for its charm and character, but for the soul that so many others lack. In a conversation with one of the founders, it became clear: curating a space that didn’t just look good, but also felt good, was the priority.
From childhood memorabilia to quirky souvenirs and subtle nods to their parents, everything inside holds meaning. For the team, sentimentality isn’t a design choice—it’s the foundation. They believe authenticity builds real community and serves as a quiet rebellion against the increasingly commercialized world of café culture.
A House That Feels Like a Home
Even in its early months, A.bode has captured not just our coffee cravings—but our hearts. It's not simply a café or a studio. It's a house full of love, life, and, most of all, creativity.
It’s where one sip of mango espresso turns into a deep conversation. Where a quick visit becomes an afternoon of brainstorming. Where strangers become collaborators. Whether you're here to work, unwind, create, or just exist, A.bode offers more than a seat at the table—it offers a sense of belonging in a world that often forgets how much we need it.
