Contemporary Restaurant with a TWIST!

We have been commissioned to design a contemporary Chinese Restaurant in Cambridge that reflected a certain 'JIANG NAN' (江南建筑风情). For this, we look to the inspiration of 13th-14th Century Traditional Chinese Architecture of the central parts of China, incorporating the Architectural language and palette to create a contemporary interior of this new restaurant, which is to be a flagship branch of a new chain of restaurants based on this model.

Planning Permission was granted in September 2011 for the construction of an extensive first and second floor extension of a difficult site, set in a Conservation Area of Cambridge.

A series of inspiration images have been selected and presented to the client to communicate the architectural style that will be used to create a stunning new contemporary interior.









A contemporary bar counter, simple, sleek and elegant with clean crisp lines that define the juxtaposition and contrast between old and new, between modern and traditional.














Feature walls with displays of Chinese historic artefacts help to create an ambience that would communicates that vast spans of Chinese history and culture.


















Traditional screens and wall features, using traditional materials to create a contemporary setting.

A striking contrast with the old is created by an elaborate ceiling design with concealed halo effect LED lighting.











The restaurant will also offer some private dining & KTV rooms on the first floor. The design of the lobby is inspired by the use of traditional slate bricks that reflected traditional 13th & 14th Century Chinese Architecture.













The style and colour scheme is naturally informed by the use of traditional Chinese materials. A dark, pastel colour scheme with a careful balance of interior lighting, is perfect setting for the display of Chinese artefacts.












Stair design using traditional materials with a contemporary inset 'glowing' handrail, which also helps to maximise space for a Building Regulations compliant access stair.












Concept design for a share wc lobby. The use of traditional materials and a balance of lighting effects is key to create a interesting space.