A Unique Asian Noodle Shop: Stripping Back to Create an Authentic Experience

As the world of interior design and architecture continues to evolve, more establishments are breaking away from traditional design norms to create spaces that provide a unique experience. This Asian noodle shop is a prime example, as it avoids conforming to any specific style, choosing instead to present an authentic Asian street food experience without overtly Asian design elements.

A Strategic Kitchen Layout: The Heart of the Space

The central focus of this innovative interior is the open kitchen, situated between the two entrances along the building's façade. This strategic placement ensures that guests are immediately immersed in the action upon entering the restaurant, with noodles being made, wok dishes being fried, and drinks being poured in full view of the diners.

Paying Homage to Asian Street Eateries

By placing the open kitchen at the center of the space, the design pays tribute to Asian street eateries where all processes are open and on display. The first room is the most dynamic and noisy, while privacy increases as guests move deeper into the subsequent rooms, culminating in a small VIP room near the bathroom.

Minimalist Design Approach

The design is inspired by authentic Asian catering establishments that typically avoid intrusive decoration and excessive pretentiousness. As a result, the decision was made to leave the room virtually untouched after the disassembly phase, exposing the brick walls and preserving the beautiful floor texture with translucent epoxy resin.

Preserving the True History of the Space

Upon removing the drywall, the designers discovered remnants of old embossed tiles on the brick walls, which were left exposed to showcase the space's history. The metal rails from the drywall were also retained, transformed into a three-dimensional pattern that complements the brick walls.

Wooden Portals: A Touch of Modernity

One of the few overtly designer elements in the space is the wooden portals in the doorways. These modern introductions serve to further highlight the preserved details and surroundings, creating a harmonious balance between old and new.

Subtle Allusions to Asian Markets

While the overall design avoids overtly Asian details, the interior subtly incorporates elements reminiscent of Asian markets. Seating areas feature sofas made from folded cotton mattresses, and vegetable storage boxes are repurposed as chairs, providing a casual and authentic dining experience.

"Dismantling Style" Light Fixtures

The light fixtures in the space are left in a "dismantling style," without casings, further emphasizing the stripped-back design approach. This choice contributes to the overall warmth and ambiance of the interior, despite the use of relatively cold materials in the finish.

A Touch of Whimsy: Red Glitter Hearts

As a playful reference to the small pieces of litter often found on the floor in Asian street cafés, the designers poured epoxy resin over tiny heart-shaped red glitter, adding an unexpected touch of whimsy to the space.

This unique Asian noodle shop provides a refreshing alternative to the conventional interior design of such establishments. By stripping back the space and incorporating subtle nods to Asian street food culture, the designers have created an authentic and immersive dining experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on guests.

Architecture Bureau: Anna Lvovskaia, Boris Lvovskiy, Fedor Goreglyad, Maria Romanova

Project team: Anna Lvovskaia, Boris Lvovskiy, Fedor Goreglyad, Maria Romanova, Julia Gritsuk

Location: Russia, Saint-Petersburg, Nekrasova str. 21

Year of construction: 2020

Area: 75 m2

Timescales: 2 months

Photography: Dmitrii Tsyrenshchikov