Project: TERRAKOTA
Award: Gold, Hospitality Interiors - Restaurants & Cafe's, Small Practice (Under 20 Employees), 2024
Location: Shanghai, China
Design Practice: More Design Office
Client: Terrakota
More Design Office's inviting biophilic design for Terrakota, a European Bistro originating from the Mediterranean and the Atlantic and located in Shanghai, incorporates the sensitive renovation of an existing warehouse.
The judges said: "It was great to see the successful refurbishment of the existing part of the restaurant and its seamless connection to the new structure."
While old structures have been refurbished and reused, a new terracotta wall wraps the walls of the kitchen and dining space and continues out into the ‘secret garden’. This roof courtyard is surrounded by lush planting and covered by a retractable roof, which opens up to allow views of the sky.
"The beauty of the unifying terracotta material is evident and works well with lush greenery surrounding the dining space," the judges added.
The use of glass ceilings and walls, combined with terracotta and wood, create a warm, welcoming glow while the ceiling's tongue-and-groove timber structure adds charm. The new extension, defined by its expansive glass roof and surrounding greenery not only blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor but also allows for a dynamic dining experience defined by the changing weather and time of the day.
An open layout promotes the flow and interaction within the space. Solid walls are replaced by glass curtain walls, fostering a connection with the urban surroundings, sky and nature. The attention is shifted from monochromatic interiors to vibrant green plants, infusing the space with liveliness.
Design highlights
A terrace seamlessly extends from the open interior to the exterior of the building, visually expanding the indoor space. Surrounded by a lush garden, it creates an ambience of relaxation and serenity, where guests can unwind.
The furniture and decor reflect the hues and textures of the natural environment, incorporating tactile elements such as cotton, linen, oak, leather and ceramics.
"This is a wonderfully inviting space, where the use of glass ceilings and walls, combined with terracotta and wood, creates a warm, welcoming glow. The ceiling's tongue-and-groove timber structure adds a charming touch. The design cleverly merges old-world and new-world elements, seamlessly integrating architecture and interior design to create a cohesive and harmonious dining experience," the judges said.
Photo credit: More Design Office / Pianfang Studio
- FOUNDERS AND DESIGN DIRECTORS: Jaycee Chui, Justin Bridgland