As the inaugural venture beyond Guangdong Province, Hanyangguan Shanghai seeks to interweave the essence of Shenzhen, its birthplace, with the culinary traditions of South Korea.

The design of the restaurant draws inspiration from the Hanok, a traditional Korean home known for its central courtyard, an open space designed not only for communal gatherings but also for its practical role in heat retention during harsh winters. Unlike the Chinese courtyards designed to channel wealth, the Hanok's courtyard is a functional space, with the entire structure raised to allow for wood heating from beneath, fostering warmth and unity under the open sky.

Hanyangguan Shanghai reimagines this concept with a modern twist, employing a tilted galvanized sheet structure to mimic the Hanok's distinctive roofing, while the interiors are finished with a soil-like cement to soften the industrial edge of metal. The central atrium, bathed in natural light from the skylight above, contrasts with the dimly lit surroundings, creating a space that is both inviting and enigmatic.

Through this architectural homage, Hanyang Guan not only preserves the Hanok's architectural features but also encapsulates the warmth and conviviality of a traditional courtyard. It narrates the interplay of light and shadow, the inside and the outside, weaving a timeless tale of togetherness and cultural fusion.

location: Xintiandi Ruihong, Shanghai, China

area: 450 sqm (excluding the outdoor dining) | client: Hanyang Guan | built date:  2021.9