Kris Lin International Design: Winner of World Design Awards 2024. A. Project Overview and Objectives
This project is an innovative two-story multifunctional venue aimed at artistic representation of nature, combining dining and art to create a hybrid space.

B.Functions
First Floor:a. Entrance Hall、b. Café Area
Second Floor:c. Restaurant、d. Art Gallery、e. Salon

C.Challenges
The interior features 13 structural columns. The challenge lies in ensuring these columns do not compromise the overall aesthetics while maintaining full functionality.

D. Advantages
The project is adjacent to an 80000㎡ birch forest park, offering unique natural landscape resources.

E. Design Approach The project employs a comprehensive approach integrating interior design, landscape design, and soft decoration design.aters return to the hall” and echoing the circular elements of the Celebrity Sculpture Park to the north.

2.Idea

Inspired by the birch forest park, the design extracts the forms of birch tree canopies and branches, transforming structural columns into abstract trees. Using ancient Chinese mortise and tenon techniques, these columns are converted into dynamic canopy-like structures. The design integrates five natural elements: ① birch forest, ② lake, ③ deer, ④ raindrops, and ⑤ hills. Columns of varying heights create a staggered effect reminiscent of a birch forest, achieving a “strolling through the forest” spatial experience.

3.Form 

The project’s unique appearance is achieved by merging ancient Chinese mortise and tenon craftsmanship with contemporary design, mimicking the nearby birch forest’s canopy and branch forms. The structural columns are transformed into tree-like forms using this traditional technique, resulting in a visually striking net-like canopy. This design creates a forest ambiance, with sunlight filtering through the gaps, enhancing the aesthetic appeal. The intricate execution involved precise manufacturing and assembly, ensuring structural integrity while achieving an organic look. This environment captivates users by offering a warm, inviting space for socializing in the art gallery and enjoying leisure time in the café.

4.Function 

This multifunctional space integrates an entrance hall, café area, salon, restaurant, and art gallery, creating diverse social and cultural experiences. Its highlights include unique tree-like structural columns and a net-like canopy that evoke a forest-like atmosphere.

The design clearly delineates different areas while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic, making the space easy to navigate and visually appealing. Users can effortlessly transition between business, leisure, art appreciation, and dining experiences. The space combines natural beauty with artistic elegance, providing a serene and inspiring environment that enhances social interactions and personal relaxation.

5.Differentiation 

This project stands out through its innovative fusion of dining and art within a nature-inspired setting, breaking away from traditional single-function spaces. Competing in the high-end hospitality and cultural sectors, it incorporates the unique use of ancient Chinese mortise and tenon techniques to transform structural columns into artistic tree-like forms. The integration of diverse functions—restaurant, café, salon, and art gallery—creates a versatile space that hosts exhibitions, book launches, and high-profile events. By offering a distinctive and immersive environment, it enhances brand prestige, attracts a diverse clientele, and stimulates increased foot traffic and brand loyalty.

6.Impact  This project embraces social and environmental responsibility by creating a multifunctional space that caters to diverse community needs, from social gatherings to cultural events. Its sustainable design incorporates locally sourced materials and energy-efficient systems, minimizing environmental impact. The use of traditional mortise and tenon techniques not only preserves cultural heritage but also ensures durability and reduces the need for metal fasteners. Commercially, the project’s versatility attracts a wide customer base, increasing revenue streams and enhancing brand visibility. By hosting cultural events and social activities, it fosters a vibrant community hub, promoting economic growth and cultural prosperity.

Project Details:-
Firm
Kris Lin International Design

Designer
Kris Lin

Project Name
BIRCH FOREST

Project Category
Commercial Interior Built

Team
Anda Yang

Project Location
Xi ‘an, Shaanxi Province, China

Country
China

Photography ©Credit
Kris Lin International Design

Kris Lin International Design has been rooted in Shanghai for 23 years, serving China’s top 100 real estate developers and Southeast Asian projects. Specializing in integrated architectural, interior, soft decoration, and landscape design, KLID adheres to the philosophy of “Innovation through expertise, vision with depth.” Led by Kris Lin and Director Yang Jiayu, the firm has created numerous iconic projects, upholding originality and pursuing excellence.

---