Project
Retail
Cultural
Restaurants and Bar
Cafe and Bakery
Other
Status: built, 2023
Area: 210 sqm
Client: Shan Yi
Location: Chang Chun
Photography: Topia Vision
Nets, lights, and narrow alleys are the main elements that thread the space together. We divide the operating area into a few “boxes”, using the metal netting forming breathable boundaries. The boxes naturally carve out the walking spaces, and the netting on the sides mimics the experience of walking through a narrow alley. We hope to reinforce the cultural expression of the space by utilizing the signifiers in more than one way.
We hope that the space is one that allows people to enjoy slowing down. Shan Yi incorporates the tea culture as part of the dining experience. Every table has a tea set that encourages customers to enjoy socializing over tea before the food comes, to intentionally slow down the pace. Every tea set is customized to be an integral part of the dining table, pronouncing the tea culture of Chaoshan organically.
Shan Yi does not try to claim space through extravagance or visual appeal in a sea of commercial flair. It tries to build a sanctuary with humility and authenticity, conveying its values through the serenity it provides for people who set foot in the restaurant.