Stonesal: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation in Restaurant Design

Jeffrey Zee's Award-Winning Design Transforms the Dining Experience

The inspiration behind Stonesal stems from the desire to offer an escape from the fast-paced, technology-driven lifestyle of the modern generation. The design's unique properties, including a double-height dry-aging room, an octopus translucent central bar, an open kitchen, a mezzanine wine showcase, and five private VIP rooms, set it apart from other restaurants. The main dining area, with a ceiling height of five meters, adds to the grandeur of the space.

The exterior facade of Stonesal is a collage of textures, featuring copper, marble, and glass. The interior is adorned with a variety of materials, including translucent marble, Himalayan salt blocks, metal mesh, antique wood planks, vintage mirror, perforated metal panels, textured paint, cowhide leather, rough dark stone, and textured copper panels. The centerpiece, an upside-down hanging octopus sculpture, was 3D modeled, printed, and revised before being cast in copper.

Designing Stonesal was a collaborative effort involving numerous design iterations and consultations with lighting, landscape, and local artists. The design and client teams used Building Information Modeling (BIM) software to ensure the correct execution of exhaust and fire requirements, given the restricted site conditions. The design phase began in Shanghai in November 2021, with construction starting in Shenzhen in April 2022. Despite travel restrictions and lockdowns causing delays, the project was completed and opened to the public in November 2022.

Stonesal's design was informed by extensive research into the population’s understanding of western culinary habits and stylistic preferences. Shenzhen's growing tech industry has attracted a young and trendy crowd demanding more diverse establishments, leading to the creation of the Stonesal concept. This concept brings together the chef’s ingenious culinary creations and avant-garde design aesthetics for a mesmerizing experience.

Despite the challenges faced during the design and construction phases, Stonesal's unique design and innovative approach to dining have been recognized with a Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2023. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, creativity, and innovation, further cementing Jeffrey Zee's reputation as a leading figure in the world of design.