The Mays: A Unique and Innovative Vegetarian Restaurant

Breaking the Rules of Traditional Design

The inspiration for The Mays comes from the rich tradition of vegetarianism in Guangdong, where there are customs of abstaining from meat on the first and fifteenth day of the lunar calendar. Legend has it that eating vegetarian food all year round can reverse the aging process, making it more effective than cosmetics. With this in mind, the designer set out to create a space that defies expectations and breaks the rules.

What sets The Mays apart from other vegetarian spaces is the innovative use of materials and design techniques. The YESDESIGN team has incorporated terrazzo, stainless steel, and copper chains to create a unique and comfortable dining space. The gray black terrazzo facade with blue crystal and pearl particles immediately catches the eye, while the metal reception area, presented in a specially designed arc shape, guides customers into the dining area.

The interior space of The Mays is fully covered in gray black terrazzo, creating a seamless flow from the ground to the counter and tabletop. The ceiling, inspired by rolling hills, is adorned with carefully arranged copper chains, creating a stunning visual effect. Nordic decorations are scattered throughout the space, creating an intimate and inviting atmosphere.

The Mays spans an area of 152 sqm and was realized through a meticulous attention to detail and a focus on innovation in materials and structures. The designer searched far and wide for the perfect custom terrazzo, handpicking every single particle to achieve the desired effect. The result is a space that is both visually striking and functional.

The project, which started in November 2018 and was completed in February 2019, is a testament to the designer's dedication and commitment to creating a truly unique dining experience. The Mays has received accolades for its innovative design, winning the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2021.

With its groundbreaking design and commitment to vegetarianism, The Mays is redefining the way we think about food and design. By breaking the rules and creating a space that defies expectations, Ling Chen and the YESDESIGN team have created a dining experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.