Behind Song Xiang Lou Restaurant: Cultural Depth and Immersive Storytelling

Interior design goes beyond mere functionality, especially in commercial-hospitality industry like restaurants. More than just providing spaces, interior design becomes the art of creating aesthetics and spatial experiences. 

Among the modern aesthetics dominating restaurants industry, the charm of culture-rich restaurants stands out. Cultural values and stories have long influenced interior design, physically manifesting the intangible into built environment. Such design approach is used in the interior design of Song Xiang Lou Restaurant.

Song Xiang Lou is a refined Chinese dining destination located in Mövenpick Hotel Jakarta City Centre. The design of Song Xiang Lou is a modern interpretation of ancient Chinese mythology where four celestial creatures guard the cardinal directions. The story is brought to life through a curated blend of spatial elements, texture, and thoughtful lighting, inviting guests on a symbolic journey from dawn to midnight.

The spatial experience begins at the entrance with dragon-scale motifs and flowing forms representing the Azure Dragon and the spirit of spring.

In the main dining hall, a dramatic bronze mesh pendant light and warm tones evoke the fiery energy of the Vermilion Bird at midday.

As guests move through the corridor, dusk settles with the presence of the White Tiger. It is expressed through bold lines and a calming lantern glow.

Finally, the journey ends in the private dining rooms, where the Black Tortoise inspires a sense of stillness and reflection through tortoise-shell patterns and rich, grounding hues.

The culture and contextual stories behind each design give a deeper attractiveness to the space. More than just a restaurant, Song Xiang Lou enriches the dining experience with cultural depth and immersive storytelling.