Go back to the 1920s metro station, the ambience of the ‘Golden Age’, old and new intertwined. Shanghai is emerging as a fast growing metropolitan without ‘losing’ the core as a literary and artistic center. Tendency to conserve because of the budget constraints in this project, we had to keep the airport structure intact so we ‘borrowed’ all those elements which are already there, like the architectural form of the ceiling, the stunning Shanghai Pudong Airport runway views through the glass panels as well as keeping the old kitchen structure together by combining and connecting the two previous different concept spaces (Sushi bar and Western restaurant) etc.

The design creates a strong contrast between old and new, reminiscence of art-deco elements in the dining and bar area. Its unique open show-kitchen, the dining space stretches across the balcony, an extension of the bar’s elegance to the lounge among those bar stools with built in cushion covered with Ostrich leather, classic custom made vintage sofas set with the glossy marble tables with wicker structure, standout with the significant brass electric clock circa 1930 and provided cozy ambient with bronze art deco sconce light circa 1940 as well as the large backdrop wall of old historical pictures.

While situated in an international airport, this place is destined for a mix of emotions, the joy of re-union and the sadness of separation, we create a relax environment for travellers and transit passengers who’s can feel comfortable enjoying the time by themselves, who come for a sip of scotch or social interaction with others around and either enjoy the free Wi-Fi or famous musicians play private recitals.

Design Team: Mr. Sinner Sin & Mr. Danny Ng / 4N Architects
Photography by James Guan