German design studio Ippolito Fleitz Group (IFG) has designed a restaurant in Chaohu that transforms the surrounding waterscape into a dynamic spatial experience.
The fluid movement of water defines the spaces, forms, and architecture of the Spring Feast restaurant, located in the middle of the Bantang Hot Springs in Chaohu, China. Ippolito Fleitz Group’s 1,405m2 project draws on the collective imagination of the Ming Dynasty.
The story tells how two separate springs – one cold, the other hot – came down from Bantang Mountain before converging.
Today, they remain a popular destination for tourists and wellness seekers.
The special dynamic of this gastronomic restaurant is thus the result of the interaction of two elements: nature and culture. The interiors reflect this, with a cavernous, undulating shape that gives the building the appearance of a natural continuation of the panorama.
Experiential cuisine
The entrance to the restaurant is on the upper level, where guests have two options: head to the dining room, up a grand staircase, or down the gallery, past the lounge with a view of the rolling landscape.
A palette of white and earth tones combines with the vibrancy of vibrant green, spreading through the space like a jungle canopy. The cavernous niches are a reminder of the interior of a mountain, while the use of light-colored wood for the furniture accentuates the connection with nature.
This new, high-end address serves Western-inspired cuisine with a special emphasis on regional spring water. For example, the specialty is a plate of spring water eggs served with truffles and porcini mushrooms. And for those who just want a coffee, a little robot takes care of them at the bar.
Spring Feast thus becomes a playful and experiential space where customers can relax and indulge in culinary pleasures.
https://ifgroup.org/en/project/15550/restaurant-spring-feast-chaohu/?sector=20
Nathalie Dassa