Beijing, China / 2013
Interior
Restaurant Design for Jing Yaa Tang
In collaboration with infamous London-based restaurateur Alan Yau, for his first ever restaurant in China, we created a restaurant that brings a contemporary, theatrical design to the dining experience of traditional Chinese peking duck.
project overview
| Location | Opposite House Hotel, Beijing, China |
| Year | 2013 |
| Client | Alan Yau |
| Creative Director | Johannes Torpe |
| Design Team | Wang Torpe Studios, Beijing |
| Services | Interior Design, Restaurant Design |
| Materials | Brass, bricks, wood, marble |
| High res press downloads |
design concept
The Jing Yaa Tang restaurant resides within the renowned boutique hotel The Opposite House, in Beijing’s trendy Sanlitun district. The name 'Jing Yaa Tang', which translates to 'classic, elegant room', was suitably chosen in line with the design intention; to create an overall atmosphere that is sophisticated, intricate and chic, with a hint of regality.
“Our intention was to create a concept based on the tradition of going to the theatre. Elements from ancient theatres’ heritage can be found in the brass details of the main area of the restaurant. Additionally, we designed the concept to coincide with the modernist and fashion-conscious environment that the boutique Opposite House hotel exudes.”
areas of focus
A Theatrical Dining Experience
An open and social dining area in the centre of the space represents the 'stage' in the theatrical nature of the restaurant design. Tables are placed on an elevated U-platform, literally putting the diners on a stage where they become a part of the experiential dining performance. Raised seating around the edges of the room enhances the amphitheatre-like aesthetic and places the kitchen in focus. The kitchen’s open glass façade stages the chefs as part of the evening’s performance as they sling ducks in and out of the crackling open-fire oven.
Materials
The material choices possess a sense of richness combined with neutrality. The juxtaposed elements of brass, bricks and wood create a subtle, majestic quality that is not overbearing, but powerfully serene. The colour scheme is primarily gold and black, while highlights of red are evocative of a traditional Chinese restaurant with a modern twist. Black painted wood and marble accentuate the contrasting golden layers and traditional ornamental details.