neri & hu brings an american-style burger joint to shanghai

in shanghai, design duo neri & hu have completed ‘rachel’s’ – a restaurant that is reminiscent of american diners during the 1950s. lined with bi-folding doors, the porous eatery fosters a sense of accessibility, opening out onto the passing thoroughfare. the boundary between inside and outside is blurred through the combined use of clear, textured and opaque glass which inherently bring light — as well as views of the surrounding streetscape — into the establishment.

a geometric print is used on the floors and counter tables / all images © neri & hu

on the exterior, the structure of the diner references the classic shape of a drive-through burger joint. topped with an angular oversized roof, the theme is continued within the restaurant itself. wrapped in geometric tiles of grey-blue tones, the combination of communal and more intimate dining tables are lined with bespoke steel and walnut benches.

a large skylight punctuates the roof canopy to bring in natural light from above

mirrored surfaces and skylights simultaneously afford natural light and glimpses of the leafy surroundings. the dematerialization of the walls is further emphasized by the dominance of the horizontal planes throughout the scheme. the chinese studio has previously completed a diverse range of interior and architecture projects, read our interview with the designers here.

neri & hu also created the furniture within the restaurant

geometric tiles evoke a certain 1950s aesthetic

folding windows are wrapped in a combination of textured and clear glass

 integrating communal tables with pivoting benches accommodate individual or group dining

exterior walls can be fully opened to further extend the perceived boundaries of the restaurant

the design opens out onto the passing thoroughfare

the eatery is located in the chinese city of shanghai

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