Bizou American Brasserie

“Regard it as just as desirable to build a chicken house as to build a cathedral.”
- Frank Lloyd Wright (American Architect, 1867-1959)

Investigations into cultural and historic contexts are deeply ingrained in Neri&Hu’s design process, particularly the vernacular architectures of each unique context. The humble shed of rural America becomes the main design inspiration for an American brasserie restaurant. Located inside Pacific Place, one of the most prestigious high-end shopping malls in Hong Kong, the design inspiration for Bizou is an intentional departure from the typically opulent style found in these commercial centers. Neri&Hu celebrates the simplicity and modesty of wood constructions, while still adding touches of refinement to compliment the modern classic cuisine.

The design concept begins by inserting the shed structure which starts on the façade and extends inwards into the space, enveloping a courtyard-like enclosure. Utilizing raw walnut as the predominant material, the wood frame structural elements are then infilled with wooden planks in different orientations, as one might find in temporary constructions. Various openings occur along this wooden façade. The main opening, between the bar and the “street” has an operable panel and allows bar service to cater to both sides. Additional openings looking inwards toward the courtyard space feature awning-type windows that allow for visual connections between diners seated in different zones.

Inside the shed structure are two areas, a banquette seating and bar area, as well as a private dining room. From within these rooms, the main wooden structures are still present, while the infill material changes to hand-glazed white tiles. Throughout the spaces, hanging bronze accessories—mirrors, lighting, menu holder and trays—take inspiration from American Shaker architecture, while the feature pendants in the courtyard are a modernized version of traditional gaslight street lamps. Elsewhere, other custom furniture pieces take cues from the classic brasserie palette of marble, leather, and bronze. Striking a balance between rustic and refined, Neri&Hu’s reinterpretation of vernacular shed architecture gives an unexpected twist to an upscale restaurant in the heart of Hong Kong.