Blue Lake-Lakeside Teahouse, Beijing, China

THIS CALMING TEAHOUSE in Beijing transformed an old building into an upscale destination that balances modern trends with the traditional spirit of the East.

1. STAY A WHILE

Considering the spatial layout and rhythm of the teahouse – which includes private rooms, a rooftop terrace and a ground-floor, outdoor seating area – a variety of tables and chairs were selected to reflect the purpose and function of each space. The seating here took cues from incense burners traditionally used in Chinese temples.

2. AGAINST THE GRAIN

Wood is used throughout the teahouse for its “unique, natural characteristics,” which are “imbued with an inherent life force,” and create an inviting environment for customers, according to Chen Yi, Lead Designer and Co-Founder of YI+MU Design Office, the firm behind the space’s design.

3. STEELING THE SHOW

Custom-designed steel light fixtures draw attention and create a visual balance within the space. The tall pendant design was inspired by fishing baskets used in the southern regions of China.

4. NATURAL BEAUTY

A base coating on the walls was used to incorporate elements of grass and straws, conveying a sense of “rawness, roughness, delicacy and warmth,” says Chen. A rock slab floor is meant to resemble a Chinese inkstone with a warm and understated texture.

5. HIGH AND MIGHTY

The high archways marking the stairwell and entrances serve multiple purposes: to provide a visual barrier and enclosure for the staircase and to shield and separate the rooms of the teahouse. The arches’ concave shape purposefully reflects the principles of feng shui.

PHOTO GALLERY (37 IMAGES)
? Courtesy of YI+MU Design Office