Exploring the Aranya Jin-Sheng-Long Restaurant by Studio NOR

Introduction

The Aranya Jin-Sheng-Long Restaurant, a project by Studio NOR, offers a captivating dining experience in collaboration with Aranya Resort. Located at street level in a residential building, this restaurant occupies a unique space characterized by its challenging structural layout. Studio NOR was tasked with designing an open-dining area without private rooms, navigating around 21 structural shear walls within the less-than-300 square meter site.

Drawing Inspiration from History

Inspired by the rich history of Jin-Sheng-Long, known for its traditional Beijing cuisine dating back to the late Qing Dynasty, Studio NOR aimed to recreate the bustling ambiance of the Old Dong’an Market. Drawing from this historical context, the design concept focused on transforming the dining area into a modern interpretation of the market’s intricate and meandering spatial experience.

Embracing Spatial Complexity

To overcome the spatial challenges posed by the numerous shear walls, Studio NOR adopted an innovative approach. Rather than concealing the walls, they embraced their presence by treating each one as a freestanding object within the dining space. This strategy not only enhanced spatial flow and privacy but also reflected the cultural significance of the restaurant.

Designing Around Programmatic Needs

The bar and kitchen, essential components of the restaurant, were strategically positioned in the longest structural bays to the north. Utilizing existing shear walls, Studio NOR enclosed these areas while concealing others within new walls. These walls, varying in dimensions and orientation, became integral to the spatial composition, with niches and rotating angles adding visual interest.

Creating an Immersive Dining Experience

The design prioritized natural light and minimized artificial fixtures to enhance the dining atmosphere. Large windows and copper-clad surfaces projected the restaurant’s ambiance onto the street, inviting passersby to experience its vibrancy. At night, dim lighting and traditional music further immersed diners in the historical narrative woven into the space.

Conclusion

The Aranya Jin-Sheng-Long Restaurant exemplifies Studio NOR’s ability to merge historical context with modern design principles. By embracing spatial complexity and drawing inspiration from tradition, Studio NOR has crafted a unique dining destination that captivates the senses and transports diners through time and space. This project serves as a testament to the transformative power of architectural storytelling in enriching the dining experience.