Back to Nature: Restaurant Lunar in Shanghai by Sò Studio.

Although dining options in a metropolis like Shanghai may be plentiful, it is often challenging to find a place of relaxation. This was the underlying objective of the city’s newest addition, Restaurant Lunar by Sò Studio, which achieves tranquillity in the form of a modern Chinese restaurant, offering a break from the bustling streets.

Situated in the heart of West Jianguo Road, the restaurant takes its name from the Chinese Lunar calendar and elevates fine dining through a Scandinavian and natural material palette with light wood, stone and earthy tones. Balancing monolithic shapes with simple geometry, Restaurant Lunar a multi-sensory experience.

The combination of oriental and modern architectural styles provides an idyllic dining experience across 260 square meters. Instead of following a strict traditional Chinese architecture, Sò Studio utilises substantial geometric proportions and balances beauty with the past. This is evident through the shapes of the chairs, shelves, the suspended light features, the wall’s undulating curves, stone structures, and even floral decoration. Adding to this is the bamboo curtains’ softness that allows natural light to filter in.

Taking diners on a journey back into nature, the different spaces and shapes of the design resonate with various elements of traditional Chinese culture. For example, on the first floor, the tea stalls reference tea pavilions in the moonlight with soft lighting, tea brick and terrazzo tiles with a wooden floor. Even the mural hand-painted renders adorning the walls mimic the moonlight, with orange fluorescent colours and white layers. Sò Studio’s collaboration with florist and designer Maggie Ma resulted in touches of decorations and finishes adding a Zen element amongst the simplicity of design.

As one moves through the space and ascends the stairs to the second-floor dining area, the pebble-paved trail is highlighted. Referencing nature as well as the traditional landscaping style of Chinese gardens, a distinctive hanging cornice outlines the curves of the space. It guides diners to the seating areas and private dining spaces, which are tucked behind semi-transparent partitions.

Through textures and a matte surface finish to avoid glare and excessive reflection, Restaurant Lunar uses lighting effects and minimalistic natural design to create a powerful visual impact for a calming dining experience.

Related: Oxalis Restaurant in Shanghai by Sò Studio.

[Images courtesy of Sò Studio. Photography by Wen Studio.]