Hong Maison Restaurant: A Modern Tribute to Historical Elegance

Architect Jaco Pan Merges Past and Present in Award-Winning Design

Stepping into the Hong Maison Restaurant, one is transported to a time of historical charm and elegance. Designed by Jaco Pan, this unique establishment in Nanjing City, China, is a modern tribute to the Republic era, seamlessly blending traditional architecture with contemporary design elements.

The restaurant's design was inspired by the historical avenue of Jianzi Lane. Upon passing through the memorial gateway, visitors ascend the stairs to a 1.67m wide door that opens to an interior filled with affection and style. The entrance hall, with a semi-enveloped screen, welcomes guests to appreciate the eclectic design that incorporates the signature of the community.

The Hong Maison Restaurant stands out for its sophisticated bridge that connects two pavilions located in the north and south. The design, which began in 2016 and was completed in 2018, features materials such as wood, plaster, terrazzo, and marble, spread over an area of 1,700sqm. The restaurant's unique layout is a testament to Pan's innovative approach to design.

For Pan, every development is a process of reviewing past interventions. From initial brainstorming to feasible modification, he believes in applying methods that reflect the growth of technology and present it in aesthetic and artistic ways. Pan's design philosophy is evident in the restaurant's layout, which features a 'mirrored lobby' originating from traditional architecture and four free-standing dining spaces surrounding a skylight.

The design process was not without its challenges. The dining area on the ground floor was separated into two halls, connected by a long passageway. The passageway keeps the principle of 'through space' to get light in the dark. Positive phototropism ensures a primarily important dining experience when implementing the rule. The West Hall was transformed from the existing architecture, preserving the main wood structure in the courtyard.

The Hong Maison Restaurant is more than just a dining establishment; it is a tribute to the past. All independent dining rooms are named after famous figures from the Republic era, such as Sun Yat-sen and Soong May-ling. The dark palette, ranging from textured surfaces to furniture pieces, complements this theme, creating a space that recalls the prosperous period of the Republic of China more than 100 years ago.

The restaurant's unique design has not gone unnoticed. In 2018, it was awarded the Golden A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award, a prestigious accolade granted to marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creations. The Hong Maison Restaurant is a testament to Jaco Pan's prodigy and wisdom, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with its desirable characteristics.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Jaco Pan
Image Credits: Images in the project photographed by Guomin Lee; floor plans were made by the architect.
Project Team Members: Jaco Pan, Le Quan.
Project Name: Hong Maison Restaurant
Project Client: Jaco Pan


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