EXP: A Unique and Vibrant Causal Dining Restaurant

Designer: Benson Lee

The design of EXP, a causal dining restaurant located in Festival Walk, Kowloon Tong, HK, is a true testament to the creativity and innovation of designer Benson Lee. Inspired by the operational flow of the restaurant, Lee has created a space that not only captures the attention of passersby but also enhances the dining experience for customers.

The restaurant features a juice bar located at the shop front, designed to catch the eyes of those walking by. The open fruit shelved cooler not only acts as storage but also serves as a decorative element. The body movement of the staff is projected towards the shopping mall, creating a performance-like atmosphere.

The centerpiece of EXP is the pizza station, which takes the center stage. Here, the entire assembly line is revealed, providing diners with a unique and engaging experience. At the back of the restaurant, a fast-paced and sizzling semi-open kitchen, with glazing partition, further enhances the dining experience.

One of the standout features of EXP is its design aesthetic. The walls are predominantly treated with plain calm natural wood panels, accented with bronze stainless trim stripes. The floor tiles, in jumble colors of black, grey, and beige, create a smooth transition between the beige flooring of the shopping mall and the black rubber flooring at the ice skaters seating zone. To add a vibrant and enticing appearance, the chairs are in bright colors, juxtaposing against the calm and neutral tones of the space.

It comes as no surprise that EXP has received recognition for its exceptional design. In 2016, it was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. EXP's design integrates industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive feelings to its customers.