Design Next Agency (https://designnextagency.com/) is proud to unveil the latest Xi’an Famous Foods restaurant, located at 139 4th Ave, New York, NY 10003. This unique interior design project, completed in just two weeks, reflects the brand’s commitment to fast, functional, and sustainable design. With a budget of $15,000, the space was transformed into a youthful, cozy dining spot with bold design elements inspired by the brand’s signature "wavy noodles" and its celebrated “Biang Biang” sound.

Xi’an Famous Foods in Union Square caters to young professionals and students in the vibrant local community, including NYU. The goal of the design was to deliver a functional yet striking space that appeals to this youthful demographic. By using locally sourced materials and focusing on fast delivery, the project was completed in just three weeks, from concept to opening.

Lead designer Tenzin Samphel, along with the team at DNA, focused on speed and simplicity, using as much of the previous tenant’s (PLNT Burger) infrastructure as possible. The result is an uncomplicated layout, making the restaurant experience seamless with a customer flow that leads easily to the ordering and pickup counters.

The design highlights the brand’s fun and playful character through key elements such as the neon signage that reflects the restaurant's popular slogan "Biang Biang," referencing the sound of noodle dough being slapped against counters. Maroon-red and cream tones from the brand’s palette, alongside noodle-inspired wall decals and neon strip lighting, create a visually appealing yet cozy ambiance. Lighting was strategically selected to enhance the atmosphere, with daytime natural lighting giving way to neon signage and strip lights around the product stands in the evening.

DNA took great care in sourcing sustainable, local materials to stay within the project’s strict time frame and budget. Recycled wood for the fluted paneling, reused ductwork, and locally sourced tiles and stainless steel tabletops are just a few examples of the sustainable choices made throughout the design process. This approach not only reduced environmental impact but also emphasized the brand’s commitment to the local community, supporting local vendors and minimizing transportation emissions.

Completing a design-build project in under three weeks was no easy feat, especially with only one week for design and procurement. The biggest challenge was ensuring that all materials were locally sourced and readily available within the short time frame. DNA overcame these obstacles by working closely with vendors and maintaining open communication with the client throughout the process. The end result is a minimalist yet striking design that appeals to the local student and professional community, while honoring the brand’s unique identity.

Since opening in May 2024, the design has been a hit among patrons and the local community. The youthful, Instagrammable aesthetic resonates with students and young professionals alike, offering a fun, cozy atmosphere with just the right touch of international flair.

DNA is excited to announce its upcoming projects, including Hebe & Long Noodles, and several other innovative restaurant concepts, such as Fleur, Chinese Odyssey, Blanc, and Hey Tea.