The recently opened noodle bar Chubby Girl has drawn inspiration from the landscape of Southwest China in its design and layout and it caught the attention of architecture and design magazine Dezeen.
The new restaurant was designed by Office AIO, who incorporated a terrazzo floor, strip lighting and foggy mirrored walls to present the makeup of Chongqing city, home of the spicy noodle cuisine that is served on-site. Meanwhile, the design of the unit was also realised by the photography of Nadav Kander, Mark Horn and Tim Franco, whose images reflect the industrial density of the municipality.
“We also explored ideas surrounding Chongqing’s physical and cultural characteristics,” said a spokesperson from the studio. “From its unique landscape and climate to its ‘concrete jungle’ appearance and the inhabitants’ ability to adapt to rapid urbanisation, as well as the more recent development of it becoming one of China’s most vibrant incubators of street art and music.” Divided into three sections, the 150sq m venue includes an 80sq m dining area and is the latest outlet from the Chubby Girl chain that began life in Chongqing over 20 years ago.
