Beyond The Flow: A Harmonious Blend of Design and Dining

Exploring Joye Chuang's Award-Winning Commercial Space Design

The design concept of "Beyond The Flow" relies heavily on the juxtaposition of interior and exterior elements. The exterior, characterized by geometric squares, is riddled with crevices and gaps that allow light to seep into the interior. This interior, in contrast, is a series of curved tunnels, creating a sense of continuity and flow. The arched entrance, durable and aesthetically pleasing, invites customers into an environment where light, mist, and the aroma of food combine to create an aurora-like atmosphere.

What sets "Beyond The Flow" apart from other commercial space designs is its ingenious use of light and space. The arc-shaped aspects extend from the exterior to the interior, blending the space in a methodical manner. The overhead pathways, devoid of vertical walls and barriers, create a sense of passage from one room to another. Geometric holes scattered throughout the space allow light and fragrance to flow freely, enhancing the dining experience. The meticulously placed arched light strips and bulbs enable customers to absorb the visual beauty of the space while enjoying their meal.

The materials used in the construction of "Beyond The Flow" are as unique as the design itself. The interior walls are made of natural laterite containing diatomaceous earth, a material known for its humidity tolerance, odor absorption, and heat capacity. The addition of rice straw not only adds a natural fragrance to the space but also purifies the air, reducing the smell of oil in the air.

The project, located in Taichung, Taiwan, covers a total area of 280 square meters. The building, originally a US military dormitory from the 1960s, has been transformed into a yakiniku specialty restaurant. The first floor can accommodate up to 48 seats, while the second floor provides a private workspace.

One of the challenges faced during the design process was the installation of a high-quality ventilation system. The solution was a hidden smoke ventilation system that prevents smoke from filling the air, eliminating the need for overhead ventilation equipment. This not only improved the aesthetic of the restaurant but also maintained the integrity of the design.

"Beyond The Flow" is a testament to Joye Chuang's ability to blend art, design, and functionality. The design, which won the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2023, is a perfect example of how a commercial space can be transformed into an immersive dining experience. The intellectual property rights for the design belong to Nong Mu Design Engineering Company.