Layang Layang: Weaving Malaysian Culture into Design

Making an unforgettable face

Located in Taichung, Layang Layang is situated in a narrow triangle space right beside the Calligraphy Greenway, an urban space that deeply connects with the citizens. The restaurant's design aims to extend the interior to the exterior, creating a strong connection between the restaurant and the greenway. The outdoor dining area is sheltered and surrounded by a woven rug, allowing for ventilation and natural light. Glass windows on the ground floor and second floor embrace the foliage and surrounding environment, further integrating the restaurant with its surroundings.

The interior of Layang Layang is adorned with ornaments made from rattan and wood, reflecting the natural tones and textures of Malaysian culture. The steel pillars are covered with a woven straw skin, providing both structural support and a visual statement. The wooden walls, floors, and furniture, combined with the warm yellow lamplight, create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for diners.

One of the unique features of Layang Layang is the semi-outdoor dining area, which breaks barriers between the restaurant, the city, and the people living nearby. By opening a part of the restaurant for outdoor dining, Layang Layang not only generates more seating but also fosters an intimate relationship with the Calligraphy Greenway. Diners can enjoy their meals while being surrounded by the green pathways and the vibrant energy of the city.

The design of Layang Layang was not without its challenges. Designer Jimmy Yung had to carefully consider the key elements of Malaysian cuisine and culture to visualize them in the interior and exterior concepts. The use of spices such as serai (lemongrass), pandan (screwpine), kemangi (a type of basil), and bunga kantan (wild ginger buds) inspired the earth tone color palette of the design. The art of mat weaving, which plays an important role in Malaysian culture, became the theme of the restaurant. Techniques drawn from the art of mat weaving were employed to overcome structural deficiencies and create a visually stunning cover for the building.

The Layang Layang project started in May 2015 and was completed in August 2015. It has since garnered recognition and was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2017 for its outstanding and creatively ingenious design. Layang Layang showcases the best practices in art, science, design, and technology, contributing to quality of life improvements and making the world a better place.

Experience the fusion of Malaysian culture and design at Layang Layang, where every detail is meticulously crafted to create an unforgettable dining experience.