Jinghualou: A Culinary Homage to Cultural Fusion

Beijing's Jinghualou Blends Royal Elegance with Western Aesthetics

At the core of Jinghualou's design is the concept of cultural amalgamation. During a transformative period in China's history, the late Qing Dynasty saw the infusion of Western influences into the traditional Eastern fabric. Tong Xu's design pays homage to this era, creating a space where patrons can dine amidst an environment that reflects the grandeur of the royal court stepping beyond its walls to embrace global cultures.

The realization of Jinghualou's design is a meticulous orchestration of space and tradition. The greeting hall, adorned with a Taihu Lake Stone, symbolizes a warm welcome to guests from around the world. The designer's use of light and shadow, coupled with the strategic placement of elements like the two-crane and bonsai, ensures that each guest feels like an honored visitor, regardless of their position in the room.

With a sprawling area of 1200 square meters, Jinghualou's interior design is a luxurious affair. The restaurant's interaction with its patrons is reminiscent of the traditional establishments near Qianmen, offering a noble touch that harks back to an aristocratic lifestyle. The ascent to the main hall is flanked by stairs leading to a space where crystal lamps and golden screens cast a regal glow, enhancing the dining experience.

The design challenges faced by Tong Xu were non-trivial. Situated on the second floor, Jinghualou lacked a direct access route. Addressing this, the designer integrated stairs and elevators to facilitate ease of entry, thereby creating an independent commercial identity for the restaurant. This strategic move not only solved a logistical issue but also elevated the establishment's presence.

Jinghualou's design is underpinned by extensive research into the aristocratic houses of old. The result is a space that captures the essence of the Forbidden City's royal context and melds it with the finesse of Western culture. This interior design masterpiece paints a vivid picture of the late Qing Dynasty and the Republic of China, akin to a living ukiyo-e painting.

The restaurant's acclaim is well-deserved, as evidenced by its Silver accolade in the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Jinghualou's exceptional design, which not only reflects a high level of expertise and innovation but also evokes a sense of wonder and admiration among its visitors.