One Barbecue: A Culinary Journey Through Design

Bojun Liu Transforms Dining with Northeastern Flair

One Barbecue, nestled in the bustling city of Shenyang, stands as a testament to the transformative power of design. Bojun Liu, the visionary behind this project, has crafted a space that is more than a mere restaurant—it is a celebration of the northeastern Chinese barbecue tradition, infused with a contemporary zest. The design philosophy of One Barbecue is rooted in the simple pleasures of life, encapsulated by the local custom of gathering over skewers and wine. Liu's approach is a homage to the joyous communion of friends and family, a sentiment deeply ingrained in the culture of Shenyang.

The uniqueness of One Barbecue lies in its ability to blend the rustic charm of Jinzhou barbecue with modern design elements. Liu's innovative use of industrial materials, such as the mottled cement walls and cast aluminum lamps, creates a diffuse reflection of light that enhances spatial extensibility. This design choice not only amplifies the ambiance but also embodies the restaurant's ethos of boldness and authenticity. The deliberate eschewing of superfluous decoration allows the raw beauty of the materials to shine through, offering patrons a dining environment that is both rugged and refined.

Spanning an impressive 1000 square meters, One Barbecue is a masterclass in spatial optimization. The design team faced the challenge of transforming the second and third floors of a former market into a vibrant culinary hotspot. To overcome the limitations of the original structure, part of the third floor was removed to introduce natural light and create a more open and interconnected space. This architectural maneuver not only resolved the issue of low ceilings but also enhanced the overall dining experience by fostering a sense of openness and transparency.

Liu's design is not only visually striking but also operationally astute. The restaurant's layout takes into account the local dining customs, featuring a strategically placed entrance and a compact kitchen with a street-facing window for takeaway service. This thoughtful consideration ensures that One Barbecue is not only a place to dine but also a seamless part of the urban fabric, inviting passersby to partake in the culinary delights within.

The project, completed within a month, is a testament to Liu's dedication and the team's efficiency. The design journey, inspired by the documentary "The Story Of Chuaner," reflects on the importance of ordinary routines in enriching life's journey. Liu's design philosophy emphasizes creating spaces that offer respite and enjoyment amidst the city's hustle, thereby crafting a complete and palpable emotional experience for customers.

One Barbecue's design is a cultural symphony, harmonizing the traditional northeastern barbecue culture with innovative spatial planning. The result is a unique dining experience that resonates with the brand's core values and redefines the cultural expression of northeastern BBQ. The Silver A' Design Award in Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024 is a fitting accolade for a project that not only elevates the dining experience but also serves as a beacon of design excellence and innovation.