Aranya Cafeteria 6: Embracing Brutalism and Industrialization in an Underground Restaurant

A Unique Dining Experience for Pet Lovers

Aranya Cafeteria 6 is a testament to the power of transformation. The original underground space, with its harsh and rustic appearance, has been reimagined to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The designers at YSPACE have exposed the concrete walls and incorporated log materials and green landscapes to infuse the space with a natural and brutal charm. This unique approach not only enhances the dining experience but also pays homage to the pet hotel above.

One of the standout features of Cafeteria 6 is the clever use of light. The designers have taken into account the special light conditions of an underground space and have strategically placed seven light patios with green landscapes to allow daylight to penetrate the restaurant. This creates an ecological and natural ambiance that is both soothing and refreshing. The lighting design combines warm and cool tones, with spotlighting on the concrete walls to highlight their clean and cool aesthetic.

Furthermore, Cafeteria 6 caters to the needs of customers with pets. At the entrance, a designated storage space is provided for pets, along with a humanized vending machine that sells pet snacks and a pet-used water dispenser. This thoughtful inclusion ensures that customers with pets feel welcome and have easy access to the necessary amenities.

The interior area of Cafeteria 6 spans 2833 square meters, with the kitchen area covering 617 square meters. The pick-up area, service area, and dining area for customers are strategically distributed throughout the space. The designers have utilized the areas with the most columns and irregular corners for the kitchen, while the service area extends in all directions around the entire space. The wider space in the middle, where lightwells are located, serves as the customers' activity space.

Aranya Cafeteria 6 is not only a visually stunning space but also a testament to the designers' attention to detail and commitment to hygiene and food safety. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, two hand-washing areas have been set up at each entrance to the cafeteria. This ensures that customers can maintain proper hygiene and avoid congestion during peak hours.

The project commenced in December 2020 and was completed in June 2021. Situated in the Aranya seaside resort community in Qinhuangdao, China, Cafeteria 6 is a testament to the power of design to transform spaces and create unique experiences.

The design team, led by Yiming Zhu, conducted in-depth research on materials and lighting to create a space that offers a strong contrast between vision and tactility. The combination of brutal concrete walls, logged ash wood furniture, and carefully curated lighting creates a dining environment that is both clean and cozy.

Aranya Cafeteria 6 has been recognized for its outstanding design and creativity. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2022. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the design's ability to incorporate best practices in art, science, design, and technology, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

Aranya Cafeteria 6, designed by Yiming Zhu and his team, is a true masterpiece that combines the raw beauty of brutalism with the warmth of natural elements. It offers a unique dining experience for pet lovers and stands as a shining example of innovative design in the realm of art, architecture, and lifestyle.