ROOT: A Culinary Journey Inspired by Nature

Vincent Chi-Wai Chiang's Award-Winning Design Fuses Fine Dining with Natural Elements

Chiang's design inspiration came from his experiences of light aircraft flying, where he was able to take in breathtaking views of mountain forests and powerful waterfalls. This, combined with the exquisite brand of ROOT, resulted in a restaurant interior design that is as raw and natural as the ingredients used in the kitchen. The restaurant sources its ingredients from local organic farms in Hong Kong, further emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and quality.

The unique properties of ROOT lie in its innovative use of space and materials. The restaurant, located in a stylish building, spans 2,000 square feet and is adorned with fine wood and raw stone. The wooden screens, made up of divergent sizes, are designed to imitate a real forest. These screens are movable, allowing for the creation of different zones to match varying needs. To avoid the sense of pressure generated by tall buildings and to block sunlight, wooden screens are strategically placed on the curtain wall, creating a refreshing dining atmosphere.

The design realization technology of ROOT is equally impressive. Main air conditioners are installed in the kitchen and behind an antique bronze mirror hanging cabinets to reduce noise and enhance visual permeability in the dining area. The open kitchen, visible from the dining area, allows diners to watch the chef at work, creating an empathetic connection between them and enhancing the overall dining experience.

The project, which started in September 2018 and finished in December 2018, faced several challenges. One of the major challenges was making the best use of the limited area. The installation of air conditioning and aeration equipment was carefully calculated to prevent the food from chilling too quickly while frying and to prevent cooking fumes from affecting the dining experience.

ROOT's design excellence has been recognized with a Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2019. The award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

In conclusion, ROOT is a testament to Vincent Chi-Wai Chiang's ability to fuse design and dining in a way that is both innovative and respectful of nature. The restaurant's design, inspired by the raw beauty of the natural world, offers diners a unique, immersive experience that extends beyond the plate.