Arena Kitchen Restaurant

Press Kit

Unique Properties

From the dated diner comes a sophisticated open-floor restaurant with an intimate dining-bar area and an outdoor cafe space set apart by marble tiles and a transverse wave-like partition. The cafe area is light-flooded mimicking natural light against wave curves that extend from its multi-level ceiling to the concave projection wall, bar counter and movable furniture to promote fluidity between the areas. Wood accent walls don the space and storefront to add warmth and style for every occasion.

Dimensions & Packaging

The restaurant with a respective indoor and outdoor space of 1,700 sq ft comprises a marble takeaway counter that flows into the open floor plan. Lined with movable furniture and a wave-inspired partition, they serve as a versatile backdrop for various events. A white acrylic feature wall (updated thematically) takes centre stage, complemented by wood veneer furniture and fixtures. The round ceiling morphs naturally into a projection wall and meticulously conceals a connecting door to the expo.

Tags

Interior Design, Restaurant & Bar, Multipurpose, Cafe, F&B, Convention, Hospitality, Nature

Production Technology

The curved ceiling flows naturally into a projection wall, accentuated by dimmable LED lights that give balance and airiness to the venue. Movable furniture grace the floor to optimise space and form a continuous rhythm with the wave-like partition on the open floor. The underlying neutral palette is paired with wood veneer panels for warmth, while marble tabletops exude class. The 7m bar counter features faux marble finishing for a more seamless feel, complementing the flowy display shelf.

Design Challenge

The biggest challenge lies in the total compliance with the building regulations and strict requirements imposed by the respective authorities particularly in the airport vicinity where the restaurant located. Adopting an organic wave-like design means that no sharp edges or grout lines are present in any fixture or furniture to create a seamless continuity. To maximise space, all the furniture, partition inclusive, are movable and can be easily stored away.

Research

The NOVUS team had worked closely with the client and facility management team from start to finish to ensure the design and renovation process adhered to the strict regulations set by the Airport Authority Hong Kong. The project was completed in a tight timeframe of four months, from conception to implementation, and was the result of rigorous research and meetings with the client. Shortly after its opening, the client had reported an immediate increase in business amidst the pandemic.

Inspiration

As Hong Kong’s go-to venue for gigs and expos, this is the meeting place for work and leisure next to the citys' underrated natural beauty. While transforming this dated restaurant into a versatile event-dining venue, a new visual language inspired by organic sea curves is applied on its multi-level ceiling, infrastructure and movable furniture that grace the open floor. A neutral palette is used to create quiet charm and coziness that makes it a prime space for all occasions and party sizes.

Project Duration

The project started in June 2020 at AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong's major convention and exhibition centre, and finished in October 2020.

Operation Flow

Inspired by the spectacular sea view that surrounds the convention centre, organic curves run through the divided dining spaces and takeaway counter, from the multi-level ceiling to the bar counter and wavelike partition on the open floor. Wood wall paneling and marble tabletops complement the underlying neutral palette and bring coziness into the setting. Space is optimised by movable furniture pieces that can be rearranged throughout the day to serve different dining and social experiences.

Image Credits

All Images: Photographer William Fung, Arena Kitchen, 2020.