Rediscovering History in a New Light
Nestled within the Jiangsu Intelligent Manufacturing New City Park, the MOOI ARCHIVE Restaurant breathes new life into the remnants of the Nanjing Second Machine Tool Factory. Formerly a bastion of industrial prowess, the site has been reimagined as a thriving industrial park. TRIOSTUDIO, the design team behind the project, sought to honor the factory’s legacy while ushering in a new era of culinary innovation. By preserving the original structure and infusing it with contemporary design elements, they created a space where boundaries blur and nature reigns supreme.
Disappearance and Integration: A Design Philosophy
Drawing inspiration from the surrounding street life, the design ethos of MOOI ARCHIVE revolves around the concepts of “disappearance” and “integration.” The name “MOOI,” meaning “beautiful” in Dutch, serves as a symbolic expression of this philosophy. The outdoor landscape seamlessly transitions indoors, inviting patrons to dine amidst lush greenery and urban charm. The result is a rare experience that blurs the lines between interior and exterior, bringing diners closer to nature than ever before.
Structural Ingenuity: Redefining Space
Respecting the original building’s aesthetics, TRIOSTUDIO embarked on a mission to reimagine the spatial framework while preserving its essence. By incorporating a steel frame with a unique structural form, they created an illusion of weightlessness, suspending the second-floor kitchen area and dividing the dining space with finesse. The overhanging structural block, clad in mirrored material, further enhances the sense of integration, transforming the space into a veritable glass box that seemingly disappears into the sky.
Nature as a Design Element
At the heart of MOOI ARCHIVE lies a 5-meter plum tree, symbolizing the restaurant’s deep connection to nature. Its presence blurs the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a sense of tranquility amidst the industrial backdrop. Greenery adorns every corner, erasing the distinction between the built environment and the natural world. Dynamic lighting, synchronized with the rhythm of nature, adds to the ethereal ambiance, creating a dreamlike experience for patrons.
A Place of Connection and Exploration
With its open street corners and transparent façade, MOOI ARCHIVE invites the community to partake in its vibrant atmosphere. Whether basking in the warmth of the sun or reveling in the cool breeze, patrons can enjoy a sense of freedom akin to a day in the park. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a sanctuary where people can reconnect with their surroundings, forge new connections, and embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. In a world filled with monotony, MOOI ARCHIVE offers a glimpse of something truly extraordinary.
