KASA, located in the Central District of Hong Kong, is an exciting addition to Wellington Street’s busy lunch hour options. The client’s brief was simple and concise: healthy, takeaway, fusion cuisine.
The design concept, by Lim + Lu, explores what it means to be deeply rooted in Hong Kong culture. Images of cha chaan teng (local Hong Kong diners), wet markets and neon-lit streetscapes—establishments that have helped to shape the vernacular architecture of Hong Kong—are incorporated into the interior design.
Since freshness is a quality that the client wants to convey to patrons, pendant lights are used as a subtle nod to the ubiquitous Hong Kong wet markets, known for their fresh greens and daily catches. Drawing inspiration from the glowing neon glass tubes found throughout the city, an LED sign floats over the kitchen, spelling out “healthy eating” in Chinese.
Vinyl booth seating, mirrors, marble table tops and tiled walls and floors are used to add a touch of local charm and character. As the typical cha chaan teng tiles come in limited colours, the colour palette for the restaurant is derived through the tiles—green and pink—for a fresh and youthful flavour.
KASA’s primary focus is serving the busy lunch crowd with food that can be easily consumed on the go. To support this concept, the storefront is maximised with collapsible folding doors, extending the restaurant to the street. Upon entry, one is met with what seems to be another building façade, where windows allow voyeurism from above—blurring the lines between the interior and exterior.
PROJECT DATA
Project Name: KASA Restaurant
Location: Central District, Hong Kong
Completion Date: November 2016
Client/Owner: Foodjoy Concepts Ltd
Gross Floor Area: 47 square metres
Interior Design Firm: Lim + Lu
Interior Fit-Out Contractor: Design Box Co
Images: Dennis Lo; Nirut Benjabanpot
