The Century: A Modern Twist on Chinese Culinary Culture

Designers Alex Wong and Kylie Chow Reimagine Traditional Chinese Dining

Alex Wong and Kylie Chow, the design team behind Paring Onions, were inspired by the unique history and brand DNA of Golden Century, a well-known institution of Chinese dining in Sydney. They aimed to incorporate elements commonly seen in Chinese restaurants and reposition them within a contemporary and sophisticated restaurant space. The result is The Century, a new addition to the Golden Century Group located at The Star, Sydney.

One of the unique features of The Century is the signature fish tanks inspired by Golden Century. These fifteen individual aquarium tanks, made with double glazed, toughened glass for insulation and durability, are showcased at the entrance of the restaurant. The frameless construction maximizes translucency and visibility between the entry reception and the main dining room. A raised platform integrates an intricate water filtering system and offers an unobstructed view of the tanks for the diners in the main dining room.

The restaurant also features a Sun Room, an enclosed area with full height glazing and ample natural light, perfect for lunch by day and twilight by dinner. The hanging light features are key to creating an eye-catching, intimate dining area. The Sunrooms are also available for reservations for private functions.

The semi-private rooms of the restaurant feature a back wall made up of tea cups hanging by fibre optics, a design feature that pays tribute to symbols of Chinese Cuisine. The rooms are constructed with genuine and natural solid American Oak blocks to accentuate the authenticity of this featured space, stimulating the texture and scent of American Oak Barrels, renowned for the best barrels used during the wine fermentation process.

Another unique feature of The Century is the Great Wall of Chopsticks, a tribute to this imperative Chinese dining utensil. Paring Onions designed a series of handmade wall tiles compiled by 82,320 chopsticks, creating a unique wall surface and subtle texture that gave characters and dynamic to The Century.

The Century, completed in 2013, has been recognized for its innovative design, winning Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2018. This award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The Century, with its blend of tradition and modernity, certainly fits the bill.