The Borneo Architecture Journal

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Stick n’ Bite | 可烤可串

The LED lighting behind poster panels and in ceiling coves enhances the area's cohesive ambiance with its innovative design

"Why does it always need to be red?" — was a question Worksmint Studio asked themselves when taking on the project. They choose to break away from the red-themed design overtly used for Chinese restaurants. As millennials, it is expected that this young design company would take a maverick approach to contrast the other restaurants at The Podium, Kuching. And to a great extent, they have succeeded in creating a modern Asian dining experience while retaining a sense of tradition through the use of some "hot" colours.

A close-up of the foyer, featuring a large-leafed planter that softens the space and provides a striking contrast to the hot-themed design

The ground level seats up to 30 persons, with 25 more on the mezzanine within an area of 170 m². A large glazed shop front allows daylight and visibility into the restaurant with a lush landscaped entrance that complements the soft indirect lighting of the dining spaces.

A view of ground level, offering seating for up to 30 individuals

A view from the mezzanine level, offering seating for up to 25 individuals

Ground level and mezzanine level floor plan

In the course of developing this project, Worksmint Studio strove to unify brand and experience to appeal to a greater clientele. While the space is Instagrammable, it must still be able to deliver a modern Asian dining experience, comfort without the clutter, modern without intimidation.

Making brand into a cohesive package

An eye-catching mural in vibrant red, featuring humorous cartoon characters and amusing captions

Worksmint Studio has succeeded in stitching together the various components and collaterals in a seamless and delectable whole—it is worth a visit, soon to be followed by several others.

Text by the designer

PROJECT GALLERY

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