Project
Retail
Cultural
Restaurants and Bar
Cafe and Bakery
Other
location：北京中关村
Area：168 sqm
施工单位：异禀制造
空间摄影：图派视觉
The site is a long and narrow space with limited natural light. Rather than avoiding these constraints, we chose to transform them into part of the spatial experience. Through depth, repetition, and layered circulation, combined with suspended metal ceiling elements and vertical gestures, the space develops a strong sense of progression.
Based on the elongated layout, the interior was divided into a series of connected yet distinct emotional scenes. At the entrance, two walls with vertical light arrays guide visitors into the interior. Here, light acts not only as illumination, but also as a directional spatial language, establishing the first impression of the bar experience.
We approached the project through an installation-based spatial language, using the atmosphere of craft beer itself as a design reference. Beer kegs became a recurring spatial element, arranged in repetitive compositions across the façade, ceiling, and installations. Together with diffused lighting, they also function as atmospheric light sources within the space. The central area was defined as the main operational zone, with the bar positioned as the visual focal point immediately perceived upon entry. Seating is arranged in linear compositions on both sides, working together with columns, wall panels, and ceiling structures to reinforce the spatial rhythm and order.
Materially, we aimed to reflect the character and atmosphere of craft beer itself. Wood, leather, and metal were introduced throughout the space, creating a darker, warmer, and more immersive environment.
Within the rational layout of the bar, we intentionally inserted a series of detailed spatial moments — lighting, installations, corners, and framed scenes — to create memorable experiences for visitors. We hoped the space would offer not only consumption, but also a sense of atmosphere, conversation, and lasting memory.
About
Founded by Kaiwen Zhao, Baicai is shaped by his interdisciplinary background in design and architecture. Zhao studied Industrial Design at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) and Architecture at the Yale School of Architecture. He currently teaches in the Department of Industrial Design at RISD, and has previously taught at the University of Colorado Denver, lectured at NYU Tisch School of the Arts, and served as a guest critic at Syracuse University.
Baicai approaches space beyond the conventional boundaries of interior design, bringing together architectural and product design thinking to address spatial questions. Through different scales of intervention, we explore the relationships between space, objects, and human behavior.
2026
Paris Design Awards Winner
2026
MUSE Design Awards Gold Winner
2026
Dezeen China Rising Firm of the Year
2025
POSITION Award China Best 100 Young Architect
2024
Guangzhou Design Week 40 Under 40
2024
AD China 100 YOUNG
2022-2024
Architizer Best Young Interior Design Firm Special Mention
2024
Forbes China 30 Under 30
2023
FRAME Small Residential of the year Shortlisted
2023
FRAME Award Best Emerging Designer Nominee
2023
APIDA Design Award Excellence Award
2023
FRAME Pop-up Store of the Year
2022
FRAME Window Display of the Year Shortlisted
2022
WYDF TOP 100 Designer
2022
Dezeen Award Shortlisted
2022
Architecture Masterprize Best of The Bests
2022
AD China 100 YOUNG
2020-2022
Architecture Masterprize Honorable Mention
2022
KUKAN Design Award Shortlisted
2022
DNA Award Winner in Workplace Design
2022
DNA Award Honorable Mention in Workplace Design
2022
DNA Award Honorable Mention in Showroom Design
2022
K-Design Award Winner
2022
Novum Design Award Gold Award
2022
Novum Design Award Silver Award
2022
IDA Design Award Honorable Mention
2022
FRAME Best of the Month
2022 April
Design for Asia Award Bronx Award
2021
Design for Asia Award Excellence Award
2021
IDEA Design Award Finalist
2021
Golden Pin Design Award Winner
2021
Golden Pin Design Award Honorable Mention
2022
by Tincidunt Nisl
2024
Ullamcorper Faucibus (Congue) Euismod, by Ligula Parturient, Bibendum Review Porta Libero
2023
Dictumst Tristique, Facilisis Magazine, Edition Two, Porta Libero
2021
Auctor Adipiscing Art Magazine, Porta Libero
2020
Sollicitudin Ornare Magazine,
Porta Libero
2020
by Tincidunt Nisl
2024
Ullamcorper Faucibus (Congue) Euismod, by Ligula Parturient, Bibendum Review Porta Libero
2023
Dictumst Tristique, Facilisis Magazine, Edition Two, Porta Libero
2021
Auctor Adipiscing Art Magazine, Porta Libero
2020
Sollicitudin Ornare Magazine,
Porta Libero
2020