Birch Forest: A Poetic Blend of Architecture and Nature

Restaurant Design Inspired by Northern Song Dynasty Poetry

Kris Lin's design stands out for its innovative use of the grid system in the ceiling, which mimics the intertwined canopy of a forest. This abstract representation of a forest canopy has become the most expressive image characteristic of the Birch Forest. The entire indoor space is neatly arranged, resembling an artificial forest within the larger forest.

The design was realized using the mortise and tenon joint technique, a common skill in Chinese traditional architecture. This technique, inspired by the wisdom of the ancestors, creates a visual art effect for space creation and completes the interpretation of traditional culture. The project covers an area of 1000 square meters and incorporates elements of forest, deer, water, and traditional Chinese architecture.

The Birch Forest is not just a restaurant, but a mixed-use commercial space. Initially, the first floor serves as a sales negotiation function, and in the later stage, it will function as a restaurant and art gallery space, like the second floor. This sustainable design approach ensures the space can be used for a long time.

Located in Xi'an's Xixian New Area - Jinghe new town, the project is close to the Jinghe Wetland Park. With its high-quality river resources, rich surrounding green fields, and beautiful Wetland Park, the project has achieved unique ecological resources. The project started in July 2021 and was completed in December 2021.

The construction of the continuous curved surface of the ceiling grid was the biggest challenge of this project. Through three-dimensional design, machine cutting of aluminum plates in the factory, and final installation and splicing at the construction site, the team was able to overcome this challenge. The process was environmentally friendly, with no abandoned building materials or construction waste.

The Birch Forest project has been recognized for its creativity and innovation, winning the Silver A' Hospitality, Recreation, Travel and Tourism Design Award in 2022. This award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.