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Issue 62 - Living in the Environment Issue

Issue 62

Living in the Environment Issue

Issue 62 is the first issue of the year and always a great time to put our best foot forward. With Adam Goodrum, the loveliest man in design, as Guest Editor, we draw on his insights as a furniture designer, artist and educator to look at the makers shaping our design world. Sustainability has never been more important, and increasingly this is a consideration from the start with projects designed to address their immediate environment as well as the longevity of the planet. From the coldest winters to the most tropical of summers, addressing how we live in the environment is crucial to creating the perfect home.

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There’s history visible in the walls at Yuangu
HospitalityAleesha Callahan

There’s history visible in the walls at Yuangu

China

This restaurant in Chengdu, China is a patchwork of its previous lives, reimagined as a rich material backdrop for its latest chapter.


Yuangu is a restaurant that sits above the street in Taikoo Li in Chengdu, Southwest China. Given that it was the very first restaurant in the region, there was immense significance to the project, which Wuzhi Design has executed in its refurbishment with care and respect. Taking a meticulous approach to the design process, many of the unique design features of this historic establishment are still apparent in its latest update.

The space is accessed by traversing a set of stairs where guests are greeted by historic features, like original old slate and wooden boards – exuding the charm and character of the history within a serene atmosphere.

The entrance is deliberately elongated and mystical, drawing people through a narrow hallway. Along this journey, the ambience shifts when it opens out to a bright and vibrant courtyard, which serves as the heart of the establishment.

The materiality further communicates a connection to nature by including bamboo, cement render, timber and stone. The combination calls back to the roots of simplicity and warmth that define Yuangu.

Another special element within the restaurant space that aligns with the desire to connect to nature is a dramatic water feature, illuminated from beneath, water trickles through a bamboo shoot. As a centrepiece of the restaurant, it adds a touch of serenity.  

Yuangu is comprised of three main zones – dining and bar areas, the entrance and central courtyard, and the service areas including the kitchen and private dining rooms. The zones are delineated for their different uses and operate somewhat independently. However, each still has a close relationship with the central courtyard and there is an evolution of the design aesthetic that feels holistic and connected.

The kitchen is positioned in a back corner for practicality and efficiency. The bar has a more casual vibe where an overhead structure houses the alcohol, while one edge opens up fully to the courtyard. The main dining area has a mix of banquette and general seating.

When asked about the design inspiration for the restaurant, the designer stresses that form is simply the result of solving rational design problems such as space utilisation, energy efficiency, and lighting.

The simple, natural, and warm atmosphere of Yuangu is embodied in the design and speaks with great respect to the history of the building. Yuangu restaurant stands out as a testament to the power of design and the significance of preserving cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Project details

Architecture & interiors – WUZHI Design
Landscape designer – Yuxuan Yang
Photography – Chuan He (Here Space); Shuang Zhao (Wuzhi Design)


About the Author

Aleesha Callahan

Tags

Architecturechinahistoric restaurantInterior DesignrestaurantWuzhi DesignYuangu restaurantYuangu Yunjing


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Issue 62 - Living in the Environment Issue

Issue 62

Living in the Environment Issue

Issue 62 is the first issue of the year and always a great time to put our best foot forward. With Adam Goodrum, the loveliest man in design, as Guest Editor, we draw on his insights as a furniture designer, artist and educator to look at the makers shaping our design world. Sustainability has never been more important, and increasingly this is a consideration from the start with projects designed to address their immediate environment as well as the longevity of the planet. From the coldest winters to the most tropical of summers, addressing how we live in the environment is crucial to creating the perfect home.

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