Lakeview Palace Restaurant: A Harmonious Blend of Ancient Philosophy and Modern Design

Designed by Honglei Liu, the restaurant is a unique interpretation of the five elements of Asian philosophy

According to ancient Asian philosophy, the building blocks of all nature and humanity are the five elements: Earth, Fire, Gold, Water, and Wood. These elements are believed to inhabit the four different points of the compass, with Water and Fire representing North and South, Wood and Gold signifying East and West respectively, and Earth at its heart. This philosophy served as the inspiration for the layout of the Lakeview Palace Restaurant.

The main dining hall, representing the central Earth element, serves as the heart of the restaurant. The West entrance, signifying Gold, symbolizes success. The Study, located in the North, is reminiscent of a calm body of water, while the fiery South is the obvious location for the Kitchen. The luxury Lounge, located on the Eastern axis, draws on the Chinese idiom that precious air comes from the East, treating every visitor as a cherished guest.

Designed as a secluded, private, and exclusive dining and entertainment space, the restaurant reinterprets traditional and vibrant Chinese architecture in a more refined contemporary fashion. Neutral tones combined with dark stone, warm wood, soft silks, modern furniture, and custom-designed light fixtures contribute to the unique ambiance. The project, spanning 713 square meters, started in 2010 in Haikou, China, and was completed in 2012.

One of the main challenges faced during the design process was the central raised stage with its treated black stone flooring and magnificent views across the lake. The entrance courtyard and the lakeside outdoor terrace set the stage for the grand circular dining table. A Chinese ceremonial tea table, made from a tree root carving, adds to the authenticity of the space, while the tranquil study with exquisite wooden screens, Ming Dynasty style furniture, and wood-carved art offers a space for peaceful contemplation and conversation rarely found in a restaurant.

The Lakeview Palace Restaurant is not just a place to dine, it's an experience. As one walks into the restaurant, the sensation of being touched by the space leads the heart. Every discovery here is akin to reading the history, the culture, and the humanity, and the feeling of transgression of the freedom from the vulgarity. This unique design earned Honglei Liu the Golden A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2016, a testament to his creativity and wisdom.