Xin Ming Yuen: A Culinary Journey Through Time

Monique Lee's Award-Winning Restaurant Design Fuses Tradition with Modernity

The Xin Ming Yuen restaurant is a unique blend of contrasting elements, harmoniously brought together by Lee's innovative design approach. The essence of tradition is reinterpreted in a contemporary manner, creating a space that connects diversities in harmony. Antique elements are juxtaposed with modern features, while contrasting properties of matt and shiny finishes, elevation and indention, relaxation and invigoration provide a new visual experience. Each corner of the restaurant is a unique complex of art, culture, and fashion.

Lee's design is not just about aesthetics, but also about creating an immersive experience for the restaurant's patrons. The design is a travel through time concept, infused with a nostalgic mood of the old Shanghai Paris in the Orient where Chinese traditions were strongly influenced by modernity. Customers are invited to travel and explore history through different time spaces, feel and interpret their own feelings.

Modern techniques were used to bring ancient design concepts to life. Traditional Chinese brick walls were reimagined in wood materials with a brick texture coating. The water jet cutting technology was used to execute mosaic tile auspicious designs onto marble stones. LED light tubes form a modernized Return pattern on the ceiling, providing soft and even lighting over the bar area.

The project, which started in November 2018 and finished in June 2019, faced several challenges. For instance, the use of a glass ceiling, which is against China's law, was replaced by a treated steel plate. Much effort and time were put into applying erosive solutions to achieve the desired oxidized mirror effect. Despite these challenges, the design team was able to deliver a space that is not only visually stunning but also functional and comfortable for the restaurant's patrons.

Monique Lee's design for the Xin Ming Yuen restaurant was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2020. This prestigious accolade is a testament to Lee's remarkable design expertise and innovation, and her ability to create spaces that evoke positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.