Exploring Cafe Kowloon: A Contemporary Cantonese Experience in East London
Nestled under a railway arch in London Fields, Cafe Kowloon stands as a vibrant homage to Hong Kong’s eclectic food culture. Designed by the local studio Daytrip, in collaboration with the restaurant group 6 of 1, this modern Cantonese restaurant intricately balances utility with aesthetic, creating a space that is both inviting and energetic.
A Unique Entrance: Wonton Charlie’s
Guests arrive at Cafe Kowloon through an intriguingly designed daytime wonton noodle bar, Wonton Charlie’s. This dual-space concept intends to showcase the diverse culinary landscape of Hong Kong, fusing traditional elements with contemporary interpretations.
The Design Philosophy
Iwan Halstead, co-founder of Daytrip, emphasizes that the design seeks to capture the essence of Hong Kong’s cha chaan teng culture without resorting to clichés. “We wanted to embrace a lo-fi materiality and sense of street life,” he states, with a vision of creating a space that feels intimate yet social. The interiors are layered and dynamic, featuring reflective surfaces complemented by eye-catching splashes of color.
Material Choices: A Mix of Textures
The interior design strategically contrasts utilitarian features with glossy finishes. Pale, corrugated surfaces define the walls and ceilings, echoing the industrial backdrop of the railway arch. Dark, glossy mosaic tiles and warm wood paneling blend into the overall aesthetic, creating a layered visual experience. Overhead, vibrant green fibreglass shelving adds a modern twist while echoing traditional Hong Kong styling.
Functional Yet Stylish Seating Arrangements
A noteworthy feature of Cafe Kowloon is its seating arrangement. The main dining area showcases glossy red tables with integrated lazy Susans, designed to facilitate communal dining—an essential aspect of Cantonese culture. Curved cherry timber banquettes, upholstered in rich leather, wrap around the tables, providing comfortable seating that adapts to both small and larger groups. This thoughtful arrangement softens the industrial atmosphere, inviting guests into a more welcoming environment.
Dynamic Lighting and Ambient Atmosphere
Lighting plays a critical role in setting the mood at Cafe Kowloon. A large neon sign illuminates the space, while strategically placed softer lighting creates an intimate ambiance. Halstead explains that the color palette serves as a storytelling device. Grounded neutrals and natural timbers provide a calm backdrop, while vivid splashes of jade green and cherry red punctuate the space, creating an energetic atmosphere that evolves as the evening progresses.
Bathroom Design: Continuity of Style
Even the bathrooms reflect the restaurant’s design ethos. Bright red lighting and stainless steel fixtures maintain the lively vibe of the main dining area, ensuring that every corner of Cafe Kowloon contributes to the overall experience.
About Daytrip
Founded by Iwan Halstead and Emily Potter, Daytrip specializes in crafting unique interior experiences. Their body of work extends beyond Cafe Kowloon, showcasing diverse designs ranging from offices blending historical features with contemporary flair to minimalist home extensions.
Through its thoughtful design, Cafe Kowloon not only serves modern Cantonese dishes but also immerses guests in an atmosphere that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Hong Kong, reinterpreted for a contemporary London audience.