Castello 4
Castello 4 is a restaurant/bar located in the heart of Hong Kong with a total area of 2,200 square feet. Serving fine Italian cuisine and high quality alcoholic beverages, this edgy, yet sophisticated restaurant/bar makes a perfect hang out spot in HK.
Given the fact that Castello 4 is located inside a commercial building, there needs to be a way to attract guests and maximize covers for its owners. The designer decided to create an astounding visual impact the moment elevator doors open in order to attract potential customers.
The design starts from the center line of this space and used a bi-folding concept to create a symmetrical pattern in the shape of a vaulted ceiling, unusually designed with pillars in the shape of an inverted triangle. The designer aims to emphasize the height of the ceiling to create space illusion. With effective use of a 5-meter high ceiling, the designer successfully transforms a unit within an ordinary building into a revolutionary hall with the intention to amaze and draw attention in an instant. This is especially important as there are literally only seconds for a person to catch a glimpse of it when they are passing by inside an elevator.
The original finishing of the space is retained to minimize the construction cost; adding to it are the cement board pillars and rusty plates that match perfectly with the existing concrete walls, giving it a raw and authentic feel. Rusty screens with laser-cut triangular pattern are placed in front of the large windows to conceal the discordant views and the structure of the building façade, yet ensuring that the space is still illuminated by natural light. The irregular combination of triangular patterns reinforces the outer space design. Custom marble dining tables with uniquely shaped metal stands are specifically designed to match the theme of the bar.
The distribution of lighting on the pillars highlights the differences between daylight and nightlight views, setting completely different moods and ambiance. With the natural light shining through during the day, the restaurant is vivid and brisk; dimming the lights after dark creates a dramatic change of setting, transforming this place into a chic and sophisticated bar.
The main bar area is specifically designed in the middle with sitting areas on both sides to create a spacious area for customers to mingle around. The open floor plan ensures that staff can always be of service and can pass through crowds without hassle.
Large mirrors are placed in different angles for the small and narrow toilets in order to enhance the overall spaciousness by reflecting the internal space. Triangular sinks are installed so that symmetries and angular shapes and patterns are extended to even the smallest areas.
The ingenious use of symmetrical pattern and different set of lightings creates a stunning visual effect for this restaurant/bar and gives this ordinary commercial unit its own distinctive character.
