Knot Knot: A Surreal Art Gallery Cafe

Creating an Illusion of Taste Inspired by Salvador Dali

The design concept behind Knot Knot is the illusion of taste. Drawing from Dali's hyper-realistic style, the cafe invites customers into a magical world through the use of a magic mirror. This mirror creates an illusion that attracts customers and maximizes the utility of space. As customers enter the cafe, they are greeted with numinous Instagrammable photo-taking points, adding to the overall enchanting experience.

The unique properties of Knot Knot lie in its young and elegant style, with a girlish and delighted tone that permeates every corner. The cafe's interior is adorned with artistic touches, turning it into a gallery of its own. From Italian turquoise handmade tiles and dark walnut doorframes at the entrance to the marble bar and cake display area, every detail exudes sophistication and craftsmanship.

The walls of Knot Knot are decorated with classic frames showcasing artistic paintings, while woodcarving waistlines, ceilings, and two Roman columns add a touch of Renaissance charm. The centerpiece of the cafe is a giant frame with animation, breathing life into the space and further blurring the boundaries between art and reality.

Technologically, Knot Knot combines traditional craftsmanship with modern elements. The use of metal flower racks extends the gardening experience from outdoor to indoor, creating a seamless connection with nature. A glass room allows customers to witness the chef's final touch on their cakes before they are served, adding a sense of theater to the dining experience.

Located at Parc Central in Guangzhou, China, Knot Knot spans an area of 1400 sq ft. The project began in October 2019 and was completed in December 2019. Throughout the design process, the team conducted extensive research on hyper-realism and surreal art to create a space that is easily digestible and enjoyable for people from all walks of life.

One of the challenges faced by the designer was to strike a balance between art appreciation and accessibility. The surreal elements in Knot Knot are designed to be easily understood and enjoyed by both new and loyal customers. The extraordinary color palette is derived from the young and elegant brand tone, attracting and surprising visitors with the cafe's strong identity.

Knot Knot has been recognized for its outstanding design and creativity, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2020. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to improvements in quality of life and making the world a better place.

With its fusion of art, architecture, and design, Knot Knot stands as a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in the world of lifestyle. It offers a unique and immersive experience that transports visitors into a surreal world of taste and aesthetics.