Established in 1938, Lawry’s The Prime Rib expanded its presence to China by opening its inaugural venue in Shanghai. RooMoo Design Studio was entrusted with crafting the interior to achieve a harmonious fusion of timeless sophistication and contemporary appeal. Known for its celebrated prime ribs and table-side service featuring gleaming silver carts, Lawry’s aimed to recreate the upscale atmosphere synonymous with its American locations. The challenge was to strike a delicate balance, preserving the classic elegance inherent to the Lawry’s brand while integrating modern design elements that would resonate with Shanghai’s discerning clientele.
As patrons gravitate towards Lawry’s for its renowned roasted prime ribs, RooMoo sought to elevate the steakhouse experience through a thoughtful design approach. At its core, RooMoo’s concept centers around a striking display of prime ribs, prominently positioned within the restaurant. These ribs are artfully showcased amidst a series of curved metal arches, finished in champagne brass, collectively forming a tunnel-like structure. This design not only emphasizes the visual appeal of the prime ribs but also enhances the journey of the iconic silver cart as it moves through the space. By focusing on these elements, RooMoo aims to create a captivating and immersive dining atmosphere that celebrates both culinary excellence and aesthetic elegance.
To highlight the 80-year history of the venue, the design concept focuses on incorporating elements that symbolize the passage of time. The design studio chose the pickaxe, because it represents both farming and construction, illustrating the progression of time through different eras. This pickaxe motif is integrated into various components inside the space, such as the suspension lighting and the central structure in the middle of the room, subtly weaving the theme of craftsmanship and history into the ambiance.
Additionally, the main structural elements in the room, composed of ‘metal arches,’ feature details inspired by pickaxes. These elements serve not only as functional components but also as symbolic reminders of the venue’s enduring legacy and evolution over the decades.
The restaurant is situated at basement level but benefits from an outdoor ambiance. An open void on the floor above allows natural sunlight to illuminate the space, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. In front of the restaurant, a small terrace features a green wall, enhancing the outdoor dining experience with natural beauty. This setup not only provides a pleasant environment but also seamlessly integrates elements of nature into the dining experience, enhancing its appeal for patrons. Each customer’s seat enjoys views of the beautiful greenery. The seating includes a flexible arrangement near the facade, a fixed U-shaped sofa banquet in the middle of the room, and specially customized tall sofa seating to enhance intimacy and maximize the layout arrangement.
An escalator leads customers down to the restaurant, flanked by a tall wall adorned with customized champagne-colored metal mesh featuring the Lawry’s logo at the main entrance. Upon reaching the basement floor, guests are welcomed by a small water basin adorned with plants and the venue’s logo.
Upon entering, a red gradient glass box separates the entrance from the main space. Opposite the reception, guests encounter an art piece crafted by RooMoo Design Studio, paying homage to Lawry’s illustrious 80-year history. The installation titled “No Making Without Few Breaking” features 140 artistic paper bowls of various sizes, symbolizing the reunion of fractured porcelain and representing a new beginning for Lawry’s first Shanghai establishment.
The bar area seamlessly connects with the wine cellar via a simple glass partition, welcoming guests into the restaurant while serving as a transitional space between the reception and dining areas. Specialized tables around the bar allow customers to face each other while enjoying their drinks, fostering a more engaging experience tailored to the needs of Shanghai customers.
Inside the three VIP rooms, the space is defined by rectangular-shaped arches and metal beams suspended from the ceiling, which extend onto the walls to create a distinctive pattern and decor. These beams provide a modern interpretation reminiscent of wooden beam structures. Embedded LED strips within the beams contribute to an elegant lighting effect that enhances both the ceiling and walls, adding to the ambiance of sophistication. Additionally, the first and second VIP rooms are equipped with a sliding door system that allows for flexible partitioning according to the needs of the guests, ensuring privacy and customization of the space.
The restroom design incorporates luxurious red marble, echoing the rich color associated with meat. Combining red marble with metal accents, the toilets offer a lavish and comfortable experience that complements the overall design aesthetic of the restaurant.
About the project
Project city: Shanghai, China
Project area: Indoor interior total area: 437.00㎡;
outdoor interior total area: 272.00㎡
Floors:1 floor
Business type: restaurant
Client:Shanghai Xinfule Catering Management Ltd
Design team: RooMoo Design Studio
Project location:Wuyi Road No.168 1F B101、B102、B103、B104, Changing District, Shanghai, China
Photography:Wen Studio