- Interior
Sò Studio is a design practice in Shanghai and has been known for its quirky design aesthetics and clever use of material details since its inception. We are happy to show you this with one of their recent realisations: Lunar Restaurant, where peace, comfort and the moon play a central role.
The innovative design studio Sò Studio focuses on architecture, interior and industrial design and does so in a very innovative way. The practice was founded in 2016 by Yifan Wu and Mengjie Liu, in response to increasing demand for their distinctive design aesthetic and clever use of material details. Each project strives for a great spatial design, adding value to public life and creating a good user experience. 
Delicate decorative elements give the space an orange glow and a touch of zen.
Today, we would like to highlight one of their projects: Lunar, a modern restaurant located in a freestanding villa in the heart of Shanghai, which pays homage to the typical local way of dining. The name pays homage to the Chinese lunar calendar. But not only that, the moon and its customs are also central to the entire design, its ethos and the dining experience within the establishment.
Lunar's design was intended to convey a sense of calm and comfort, which is in sharp contrast to the bustling and dazzling hustle and bustle found in the rest of the city. The interior focuses on traditional Chinese structural details without losing sight of the bigger picture of beauty and aesthetics. To ensure a certain atmosphere, oriental-inspired design basics are integrated with geometric proportions. 
On the first floor of the shop is the tea room. Soft light floods the room, bringing a sense of comfort and reminiscent of a night with bright and clear moonlight. The staircase takes you to the second floor, where you enter through a path of pebbles. A unique cornice leads the way to the dining area and the private dining room, further recognising the curves of a classical Jiangnan garden, which merge with the architectural structure of the room.
The hand-painted mural gives the whole an orange glow, reminiscent of moonlight shadows. In collaboration with florist and designer Maggie Mao, the studio also added some delicate decorative elements, giving the space an orange glow and a touch of zen. 
Sò Studio's clever use of material details can also be felt here. For example, they chose materials with matt surfaces throughout the restaurant. These do not have an exaggerated reflection but offer peace and beauty because of their texture and touch.
Design by Sò Studio. Photography by Wen Studio