Silver A' Design Award Winner 2023
Warm amber illumination suffuses Jeffrey Zee's Stonesal Restaurant, cascading from an elongated Art Deco-inspired ceiling fixture that establishes the primary axis of this sophisticated interior composition, its geometric framework of cream-toned panels and linear LED accents drawing the eye inexorably toward the distant bar area where backlit onyx radiates with honeyed luminosity. The spatial architecture unfolds along a commanding one-point perspective, the vanishing point anchored by a sweeping curved staircase ascending to a mezzanine level lined with illuminated display cases containing what appear to be curated artifacts or wine bottles, their warm glow creating a jewel-box effect against the darker surrounds. The chromatic palette orchestrates a refined dialogue between earth tones and metallic accents: rich walnut millwork frames the host station at left where pampas grass arrangements provide organic textural counterpoint, while the right-hand wall presents a masterful composition of rough-hewn stone blocks interspersed with strips of warm backlighting that transform structural material into luminous art. The flooring transitions from polished dark marble in the entry to wide-plank oak in the dining area, establishing distinct spatial zones while maintaining visual cohesion. Upholstered dining chairs in taupe linen with nailhead trim surround intimate round tables dressed with crystal stemware, their curved backs echoing the sinuous staircase railing. A sculptural bronze figure appears suspended from the coffered ceiling, its dynamic pose suggesting flight or transcendence, serving as both focal point and symbolic gesture. The compositional balance achieves asymmetrical equilibrium: the substantial host station and verde antico marble column at left counterweighted by the extensive stone feature wall and banquette seating at right. Recessed linear lighting integrated into the stepped ceiling planes creates rhythmic horizontal emphasis while the central luminaire provides vertical punctuation, together establishing a sophisticated grid of illumination that models volumes and defines spatial hierarchy with theatrical precision.
Located in the trendy Nanshan district of Shenzhen, also known as the Silicon Valley of China, Stonesal is a restaurant composed of an interior space of 850 square meters and a lush outdoor patio area of 450 square meters with a total capacity of around 140 seats. Main design features include the double height dry aging room, the octopus translucent central bar, a generous open kitchen, a mezzanine wine showcase, 5 private VIP rooms, and the main dining area with a ceiling height of 5 meters.