Teawood: A Bridge Between Design and Dining

Vincent Chi-Wai Chiang's Award-Winning Restaurant Design Reflects the Unique Character of Tsing Yi Island

Teawood is a chain of restaurants, each with its own design theme that reflects the characteristics of its location. For the Tsing Yi branch, Chiang chose to incorporate the island's distinctive bridges into the design. The result is a space that feels both local and unique, a restaurant that tells a story about its place in the world.

The design of the restaurant is dominated by shades of gray-blue and wood, creating a sense of being surrounded by the sea. This maritime theme is further emphasized by the murals on the walls, which were inspired by the designers' visits to the Five Bridges. These artistic elements bring a touch of local flavor to the interior, making the dining experience at Teawood a journey into the heart of Tsing Yi Island.

One of the most striking features of the restaurant is the imaginary suspension bridge that appears to hang over the diners' heads. This illusion is created through the use of mirror reflection, a clever design trick that allows the bridge to extend into the ceiling, despite the limited space. The result is a design that balances reality and illusion, breaking the boundaries of the physical space and creating a sense of endlessness.

The layout of the restaurant has been carefully considered to facilitate a smooth service process. The kitchen is centrally located to reduce food serving time, and the seating positions and corridor dimensions have been meticulously planned. Even the display cabinets for the cakes are arranged in a way that encourages guests to walk around and choose their favorite, a departure from the traditional display method.

Chiang's design for Teawood is not just aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and efficient. The restaurant's unique design has earned it the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2019, a prestigious accolade that recognizes outstanding expertise and innovation in design.

In conclusion, Teawood is a testament to the power of design to transform a space and tell a story. Through careful planning, innovative use of space, and a deep understanding of the local context, Vincent Chi-Wai Chiang has created a dining experience that is truly unique. It's not just a place to eat, but a bridge between the diner and the distinctive character of Tsing Yi Island.