FAT PHO Restaurant (Feng Sheng Li, Shanghai Branch)

This project represents the perfect blend of contemporary design and vibrant street culture. Located in the heart of the Shanghai’s bustling commercial district, the design is inspired by the dynamic energy of both the local environment and the owner’s passion for HipHop music. The space embodies a sharp, free-spirited attitude, capturing the essence of casual sophistication while inviting interaction between the indoors and the lively street outside.

From the outset, the design embraces the idea of openness, with redundant walls removed to blur the boundaries between the interior and the exterior. The restaurant’s open facade offers a direct connection to the street, allowing passersby to catch a glimpse of the vibrant atmosphere within. With seating for 58 people indoors and 16-28 in the outdoor dining area, the restaurant offers a relaxed, social environment where guests can enjoy the lively street atmosphere, fine weather, and a dynamic dining experience. A semi-outdoor window sill area adds to the connection with the surroundings, offering a tranquil space to enjoy a wide-open perspective.

At the heart of the design is the concept of contrast—both in materials and in experience. The bar area serves as the visual center, designed with dual bar stations to create a fiery, high-energy atmosphere. A DJ station further enhances the mood, seamlessly transitioning from a casual pho dining experience by day to a lively wine and barbecue scene by night. This interplay of ice and fire is visually expressed through a thoughtful mix of textures and colors: coral tones contrast with cold metals, while hazy glass bricks add layers of depth to the space. Suspended "ice cubes" on the ceiling, each individually crafted, contribute a beautiful yet daring element to the design.

The use of natural materials, scattered throughout the space, pays homage to traditional Asian craftsmanship, adding an authentic touch to the modern design. The result is a stylish, dynamic restaurant that captures the essence of the city’s fast-paced yet culturally rich atmosphere. FAT PHO is not just a place to eat—it's a lively, immersive experience that invites guests to enjoy food, music, and an engaging social space.