G Design brought tranquillity to the heart of Wuhan with EAST&WEST, a gathering place and social hub within the community, located in the vibrant Jiangxia district’s community shopping plaza. This project is more than the typical restaurant experience, combining urban energy with a feeling of peace.
EAST&WEST doesn’t just serve food, it encourages connection. The design team, led by artist Zhou Qimin, understood the need for personal space within the lively plaza. The entrance acts as an extension of the street, leading directly into the dining area – but with a twist. A cleverly designed “pre-function space,” essentially a beautiful entry box, allows guests to adjust their mindset before fully immersing themselves in the restaurant’s calming atmosphere.
The space is divided into two levels, unified by a stunning sloping roof. This architectural element provides shelter and subtly defines different dining areas. Simple grey slate flooring grounds the space, while a warm wooden structural ceiling creates a sense of intimacy and refuge. As you move through the restaurant, the colour palette lightens and opens up, mirroring the rising structure. This deliberate design shift encourages interaction and a feeling of spaciousness.
The entire design philosophy – the harmonious dialogue between the city, the space, and the people – resonates with artistic expressions that explore human experience within their surroundings. The project shows us how we can blur the lines between public and private spaces, offering a tranquil escape within the megalopolis like Wuhan.