Rocha Cook: A Naturalistic and Romantic Restaurant in Chengdu

Transforming an Old House into a Scenic Dining Experience

The inspiration for Rocha Cook came from the surrounding natural beauty of the location. The white walls of the restaurant seem to grow out of the soil, creating a barrier that blends seamlessly with the landscape. The scattered arrangement of the walls allows light and shadow to playfully interact, creating a mesmerizing visual experience. The designers aimed to create a long picture-like scenery that captivates visitors.

One of the standout features of Rocha Cook is the boundless swimming pool that offers a panoramic view of the city. Guests can relax and enjoy their meal while taking in the stunning sunset over Chengdu. The restaurant's location on Longquan Mountain ensures that the sunlight is precious, making it a perfect spot to witness the most beautiful sunsets in the city.

The design of Rocha Cook is characterized by its simplicity and use of natural materials. The entire structure is made of poured concrete, while the outer walls are coated with white art paint. This combination creates a clean and modern aesthetic that complements the surrounding environment.

Despite its modern design, Rocha Cook also pays homage to the history of the location. The restaurant is housed in an old house that was once surrounded by forest. The designer's vision was to create a space that is natural, romantic, naive, quiet, and passionate. By transforming the old house into a contemporary dining experience, Rocha Cook seamlessly blends the past with the present.

Overcoming various challenges, including government regulations and changes in the land, the designers successfully brought their vision to life. The three-year design and construction process was not without obstacles, including a rare rainstorm that washed away the foundation, a heavy snowfall that caused mountain closures, and the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, Rocha Cook stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the design team.

Rocha Cook has received recognition for its exceptional design. In 2023, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. Rocha Cook's unique blend of naturalism, modernity, and romanticism has contributed to enhancing the quality of life for its visitors.

Visit Rocha Cook in Chengdu, China, and immerse yourself in a dining experience that seamlessly blends nature, design, and breathtaking views. Whether you come for the delicious cuisine or the stunning sunset, Rocha Cook is sure to leave a lasting impression.