The project is a restaurant situated within the old factory area of Nanjing No.2 Machine Tool Works in Jiqingmen, Jianye District, Nanjing. This historic site, a testament to Nanjing's modern industrialization, has been transformed into a unique industrial urban exhibition park that combines shopping and workplaces while preserving the historical essence of the original factory buildings.
Design team focused on three main aspects: low-carbon environmental sustainability, preservation of the site's industrial history, and the integration of popular dining culture. The design team emphasized sustainable construction through an adaptive renovation strategy, which involved retaining the main structure and roof of the old factory while recycling and reusing building materials. For example, red bricks removed from the exterior walls were repurposed for interior walls and reclaimed old wood was used for spatial partitions.
The exterior renovation aligns with the brand's operational vision and the preservation of industrial relics. It reinforced the original concrete structure and reorganized the facade with a cohesive design language. A steel-framed glass curtain wall was crafted at the corner to provide street views.
The design skillfully combines old and new elements, using steel as the main structural material. The first floor feels open and transparent, supported by slim circular steel columns, while the second floor's private rooms are anchored by solid flat steel columns, creating a delicate and airy atmosphere. Natural light enters through the existing skylights, and sunshade curtains are installed to reduce energy consumption.
Design team stayed true to the core concept of "repairing the old as old, preserving the old, and creating the new." The design pays tribute to the old building while incorporating bold new elements, resulting in a rich spatial experience that seamlessly connects the past and present. It offers a modern interpretation of urban life within a historically significant context.