The Altar: A Stunning Restaurant Design by Chung-Lin Lee

A Unique Blend of Medieval Charm and Contemporary Elegance

Inspired by the marks of time maturing, Chung-Lin Lee has created a space that reflects the contrast between simplicity and luxury, resplendence and damage. The design captures the essence of the past while embracing the present. The restaurant's name, "The Altar," pays homage to the sacrificial ritual that unfolds before the guests, symbolized by the flickering flames of the candles.

What sets The Altar apart from other designs is its ability to shock and dazzle. The interplay of black and white shadows in the space creates a mesmerizing atmosphere. Delicate and three-dimensional sketch strokes outline the textures, evoking a sense of impromptu artistry. Light and shadows dance, blurring the depth of field and evoking a range of emotions. Sumptuous golden shadows, reminiscent of ghosts, waver and float in the misty smoke, adding an ethereal touch to the overall ambiance.

The realization of The Altar involved meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. The palpable mottle on the surfaces is the haunting mark of devouring fire, while the sober greyscale exudes both melancholy and elegance. The ceiling, floor, and walls form a terse plot, telling the story of decay and rebirth. The faint golden gleam, akin to dewdrops on a morning web, adds a touch of magic to the space.

Spanning 26 square meters, The Altar is a testament to the designer's vision and technical prowess. Chung-Lin Lee, along with CHIEN-CHEN KUO, successfully created an interior space that seamlessly blends the medieval aesthetic with contemporary sensibilities. The result is a restaurant that transports guests to a realm where luxury and mystery intertwine, reminiscent of the salon intimacy of the 1920s.

The Altar, completed in December 2017 in Taipei City, Taiwan, is a testament to the designer's unwavering commitment to breaking free from mainstream design. It challenges conventions and offers a unique experience that prompts introspection. The design reflects the artist's chaotic thoughts and tireless experimentation, resulting in a heavy, gloomy ambiance paired with compulsive arrangements. The solemn ceremony of sacrifice continues day and night, inviting guests to immerse themselves in a world of enchantment.

The Altar has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2018. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that exhibit outstanding creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skills. The Altar's incorporation of best practices in art, science, design, and technology contributes to the improvement of quality of life, making it a truly remarkable space.

The Altar, with its captivating blend of medieval charm and contemporary elegance, stands as a testament to Chung-Lin Lee's artistic vision and craftsmanship. It invites guests to embark on a journey through time, where reality and dreams intertwine, and where the beauty of the past meets the innovation of the present.