Interview about Soda Port Restaurant, winner of the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award 2022
Soda Port contains a private dining compartment Tato and a main dining hall. Tato features an open kitchen with a pillar figurative of Macao tower. The main hall has a bar section and a dining corner. Bar area is a modern retro space paved with marble stone. Its patterns derive from the flagstone street of Senado Square, while the screen decorations serve to revive classic stained glass patterns. Design of the drinking bar brings back the mood of Macao in the 50s. On its left is a private dining corner in the context of historic Ruinas de Sao Paulo against a Portuguese tiled feature wall.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsTo create a harmonious blend of Chinese and European influences at Soda Port Restaurant, I researched Macau's architectural history, identifying key elements from both cultures. I selected features such as curved arches and intricate tile work, interpreting them through a modern lens to create a cohesive aestjetoc tjat respects tradition while appealing to contemporary diners.
The inspiration to incorporate the marble stone patterns from Senado Square's flagstone streets stemmed from a desire to connect the restaurant to Macau's vibrant streetscape. I adapted these patterns by simplifying their complexity and using modern materials, ensuring they fit seamlessly into the bar area while maintaining a nod to historical significance.
Integrating ventilation systems whithin the pillar inspired by Macau Tower presented technical challenges, particularly in maintaining airflow without compromising aesthetics. We worked closely with engineers to design a concealed system that blends into the pillar's structure, ensuring it remains visully striking and functional.
Achieving a balance between modern metallic elements and traditional Portuguese tiles involved careful material seleciton and placement. I used metallic accents as framing elements that highlight the tiles, ensuring they complement rather than compete with each other, creating a cohesive visual narrative throughout the space.
In reimagining stained glass patterns for Soda Port Restaurant, I focused on modern interpretations that evoke the essence of classical church windows while using vibrant colors and abstract designs. This creative process involved sketching concepts that would enhance the dining atmosphere while paying homage to the traditional art form.
Creating an intimate dining atmosphere in the private corner while showcasing the Ruinas de Sao Paulo involved strategic spatial planning. I used soft lighting and acoustic materials t create warmth, allowing the grand achitectural reference to serve as a backdrop without overwhelming the intimacy of the dining experience.
Prioritizing an interactive layout that fosters communication between chefs and diners was guided by the the belief that dining is a communal experience. I designed open spaces that encourage engagement, allowing diners to witness the culinary process, which enhances their connection to the food and the overall dining experience.
In creating Soda Port Restaurant's 594-square-meter space, we addressed the acoustic challenges of combining an open kitchen with comfortable dining areas by incorporating a variety of sound-absorbing materials and strategic spatial planning. We used acoustic panels on the walls and ceiling to reduce noise levels while allowing for an open kitchen layout that enhances the dining experience. Additionally, we designed the dining areas with varying ceiling heights and used soft furnishings to create a more intimate atmosphere. The layout was carefully planned to ensure that the folw of sound from the kitchen did not disrupt the dining experienced, allowing gusetsto enjoy their meals in a comfortable and inviting environment.
The aluminum ceilling design in Soda Port Restaurant was achieved through a meticulous process that balanced technical functionality with aesthetic appeal. We collaborated closely with engineers and desighers to integrate complex systems such as lighting, MVAC, and sound insulation wihtin the ceiling structure. The design involved creating custom aluminum panels that not only served as an architectural feature but also accommodated these technical systems seamlessly. The aesthetic patterns were inspired by local cultural motifs, which were incorporated into the panel design to create a cohesive visual narrative. The result is a ceilling that is both visually striking and functionally efficient, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Looking at Soda Port Restaurant's success in celebrating Macau's cultural heritage, I envision this design influencing future restaurant projects by emphasizing the importance of cultural storytelling through interior spaces. Our designers will increasingly focus on creating environments that reflect local traditions, history, and artistry, allwing guests to connect with the culture on a deeper level. This could involve using locally sourced materials, incorporating traditonal craftsmanship, and designing spaces that evoke a sense of place. By prioritizing cultual narratives in restarant design, future projects can create unique dining experiences that resonate with both locals and visitors, fostering a greater appreciation for the rich heritage of the area.
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