Yu Yuan Restaurant, Four Seasons Hotel
Seoul | Korea (Republic of) | Completed 2015
At Yu
Yuan, architect André Fu and his design studio AFSO have curated a modern
dining experience inspired by Chinese traditions. The large 5800m space has
been influenced by the historical Chinese Suzhou rock garden in Jiangsu which
was established in the 14th century and is now a World Heritage Site. Fu has
used motifs from the famous garden to create an elegant dining experience that
is intimate and personal. The restaurant can accommodate 106 guests, with 7
private dining salons. Subtle references to nature and floral motifs from the
garden create a poetic atmosphere, typical of Fu’s signature modern Asian
style.
at
The
restaurant’s reception is carved in Verde Fantasy marble blocks – a stone which
features ‘cloud-like’ patterns - that evoke the ethereal quality of Chinese
brush and ink paintings. Patterns created by traditional Chinese knots provide
a playful twist and a motif which is reflected throughout the space. Behind the
marble reception area, Fu has placed a display of 3-dimensional knots crafted
from ‘champagne gold’ giving visitors a dramatic and eye-catching introduction
to the restaurant. The Peking Duck show kitchen ensures that all the food
preparation is visible, conveying a sense of theatre. Within the main dining
room soft banquettes are set against antique gold screens to give a sense of
intimacy. Unusual, green lacquered floor to ceiling panels provide a modern
interpretation of traditional Chinese skills. Contemporary Korean artist, Lee
Gill Rae, has created an exuberant bronze branch installation and the space is
filled with bonsai trees and piles of Chinese books and publications for guests
to browse. Each of the seven private dining salons is adorned with bespoke
ceiling pendants made from curved crystal rods, subtly referencing the theme of
Chinese knots.
The
restaurant’s reception is carved in Verde Fantasy marble blocks – a stone which
features ‘cloud-like’ patterns - that evoke the ethereal quality of Chinese
brush and ink paintings. Patterns created by traditional Chinese knots provide
a playful twist and a motif which is reflected throughout the space. Behind the
marble reception area, Fu has placed a display of 3-dimensional knots crafted
from ‘champagne gold’ giving visitors a dramatic and eye-catching introduction
to the restaurant. The Peking Duck show kitchen ensures that all the food
preparation is visible, conveying a sense of theatre. Within the main dining
room soft banquettes are set against antique gold screens to give a sense of
intimacy. Unusual, green lacquered floor to ceiling panels provide a modern
interpretation of traditional Chinese skills. Contemporary Korean artist, Lee
Gill Rae, has created an exuberant bronze branch installation and the space is
filled with bonsai trees and piles of Chinese books and publications for guests
to browse. Each of the seven private dining salons is adorned with bespoke
ceiling pendants made from curved crystal rods, subtly referencing the theme of
Chinese knots.
