about the window coffee, norwich
Hi! I'm Hayley Draper and I just love making coffee.
I would describe myself as a complete and utter coffee enthusiast with a pure passion for growing regions, harvesting, roasting, cupping and the art of fine espresso and filter. Coffee is a way of life to me, a religion and obsession. I believe my purpose on this planet is to share the wonderful world of coffee and promote the true coffee experience.
I started working in cafes when I was fourteen (13 years experience!). My love of coffee has taken me to the other side of the world – Melbourne Australia. What a massive inspiration.
I’ve worked hard to make The Window wholesome and beautiful; to create a light and bright friendly atmosphere. It's petite yet spacious – the shop is actually taller than it is wide! There’s one table, one bench, one space and one Window. It encourages strangers to become friends and share life.
Everything is handmade, mostly by my Dad's wonderful carpentry; he’s made shelving using reclaimed wood, my counter from oak floorboards and the bench was sourced from an old school.
Many years ago the shop used to be a tobacco shop but now it feels more like an old sweet shop with its beautiful curved window and all the glass jars. The shop was unused for around 50 years; there was even a tree growing out of the roof!
We brought the original oak floorboards back to life and filled the space with pretty things – lots of fresh flowers, handmade aprons, local paintings, and I’ve been collecting cake stands, plates and sugar shakers.
The doors to The Window opened on February 11th 2010.