Interviews med Che Yung Kung

"Light not only travels in straight lines, refracts and reflects, but it can also travel in a fourth way, through diffraction.", Francesco Grimaldi said. Light is the best designer of space given by God. When light shines on various materials, it will produce various optical phenomena, which are reflected in the space, such as grating diffraction. Light is like a poet, telling stories and ideas in space.

Recording the process of light moving in space is like writing a diary. If the paper is large enough, more content can be recorded. Therefore, we demolished relatively unimportant rooms in the space to improve the lighting effect of the space. In fact, it also made the living room more usable and allowed family members to spend more time communicating in the living room. This is the wonderful influence of space design.

It took me 1-2 months to finish the design concept.

Light is a necessary condition for space. The project was commissioned, but the design was recommended to client by me.

Private custom homes are unique cases and cannot be manufactured and sold in large quantities.

I just want to create a high-quality space for the owner.

Carlo Scarpa who is a famous Italian architect who was active in the post-World War II period from 1950 to 1970. He has a keen insight into the use of material details, especially in the presentation of traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques.

We hope to use the grating diffraction phenomenon to feel the flow of time in space, so we have made the following attempts to achieve a visual effect: 1. Irregular wood veneer facade divisions. 2. Wooden grille cabinet door. 3. Continuing on from the above, aluminum extruded light bars are installed in the cabinet to create virtual and real light and shadow changes with the grille door. 4. The island chandelier in the restaurant adopts a regular sequence of glass shapes. 5. The living room adopts regular sequence of Hunter Douglas Luminette® Shades silk curtains. 6. Continuing on from the above, remove a room in the space to increase the sense of space in the living room and maximize the changes in light and shadow. 7. Try to show the texture of the material itself. 8. Following on from the above, stone and metal are more timeless materials than natural wood veneer.

AutoCAD, sketchup, 3ds Max, V-Ray for 3ds Max, Chaos Vantage, Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign.

Finding order in disordered space is the goal of our space operation. Through the separation of virtual and solid facades and the standard translucent decorative materials, natural light and artificial light sources are intertwined in the space. As time goes by, the space becomes like The carrier records the mark of time. In terms of space color, we use the same color scheme, match the lighting plan, and the owner’s collection to make the space artistic.

I was the main person who finalized the design. During the construction, we discussed with the carpenters, iron workers, tiles worker, and lighting masters to finalize the design plan.

As early as 125 AD in the Pantheon in ancient Rome, the architect introduced light and the external environment from the dome to create a relationship between indoors and outdoors; to modern Japanese architect Tadao Ando , he delicately introduces light and shadow into the building and elevates it to a spiritual level. Therefore, I try to let light pass through gratings of various materials to create a relationship of light and shadow in space and record the trajectory of time.

This is a fully customized private residence. The owner hopes that the decoration props in the space are unique, so we process the details of the hard furnishings like handicrafts. When the shape and size are very detailed, the sense of luxury can be more prominent. For example, the grille on the cabinet door is made of 10mm X 10mm wooden strips and covered with water-dyed wood veneer, which not only makes the cabinet breathable, but also has the value of craftsmanship.

We wanted to know what kind of results our design would get if it were evaluated by an impartial third party, so we decided to look for an internationally credible competition.

When we think back to eating ramen in Japan, we remember how lucky we were to get seats at the counter. From there, we could closely observe the ramen artisans meticulously preparing each bowl. The way they shook the noodles, accompanied by their spirited shouts, made us even more excited for the ramen to be served.

We hope to incorporate oriental elements into the westernized shopping mall and create the concept of a street within a street, just like being in a bustling food street in Japan.

We will display the award-winning results in the ramen restaurant simultaneously, so that customers can not only enjoy the taste of ramen, but also further understand the space design concept.

It took me 1-2 days to finish the design concept.

This design concept is my own idea, and it reminds me of the actual feeling of eating ramen in a Japanese ramen shop.

We don't plan to sell or lease the production rights.

We are doing space design works, and we have not seen any other plagiarized works.

And we do not intend to produce my works ourselves

Because the owner wanted a ramen shop design that was different from the past.

Kengo Kuma.

The target customer is people who like negative building.

We use interior architecture techniques to plan the spatial layout, and visiting guests will find interesting images in the space.

An array of hand-written calligraphy lanterns is used to frame the outer kitchen and dining areas like a musical score.

Ramen artisans shook the noodles, accompanied by their spirited shouts, just like notes continuously perform the contemporary Japanese space with sound tracks between the spatial scores.

AutoCAD, sketchup, 3ds Max, V-Ray for 3ds Max, Chaos Vantage, Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign.

The shape is easy to copy, our feature is the spatial layout of the interior architecture.

I was the main person who finalized the design. During the construction, we discussed with the carpenters, iron workers, and lighting masters to finalize the design plan.

Real-time ray tracing rendering tools allow us to quickly make proposals, allowing owners to easily understand the future space.

We have learned that many ramen restaurants have a small number of seats, and deliberately create a waiting atmosphere.

We encountered building regulations that required the installation of fire doors and windows. Due to the location of our base, which is inside a department store and consists of three units, we needed to open three doors to comply with the regulations, which directly affected our original design.

We wanted to know what kind of results our design would get if it were evaluated by an impartial third party, so we decided to look for an internationally credible competition.

I graduated from National Chiayi University, and studied in Wood Based Matirials and Design. My teacher during college trained us how to considering both aesthetics and user needs. When I saw the Japanese TV show "That's a Dramatic Change!", there are many cases amaze me, and made me dream to become a designer. Before I graduated from University, I always wanted to be a designer.

My company 03 dimensions design LTD. was established in 2023. Regular planning of residential space, commercial space, office......etc. We are dedicated to making your life better.

Aesthetics combined user needs is "design."

I like designing commercial space most, because it does not meet the needs of specific minority of users.

My favorite design is Japanese Ramen House. We skillful incorporation of oriental elements within a westernized shopping mall setting. The design features a carefully crafted grid sequence, with a central axis running through the space, creating a harmonious relationship between new and old parallel axes. The use of hand-written calligraphy lanterns to frame the outer kitchen and dining areas adds a unique musical score-like quality to the space, enhancing the overall ambiance.

My first work is Japanese Ramen House.

My favorite material is metal. It can be used as not only structural material but also decorative material.

When I work in the morning, I feel the most creative.

Functional needs will be met first, and then the shape design will be carried out.

Maybe I'd describe the process as a mix of curiosity, purpose, and quiet excitement—like solving a beautiful puzzle one piece at a time.

It might come with a sense of reverent pride when designs are realized.

If the owner is satisfied, I think the design is successful.

I will first look at the target customer of the design and whether their needs are fulfilled.

Designers are guardians of the earth's resources.

When designing objects, always choose materials that are recyclable.

And create durable products, not trendy ones.

Good design improves the quality of life. Great design does not exclude any user. And ensure that products, spaces or systems can be used by people of all abilities and backgrounds.

I think generative design is influencing the development of this field of design and breaking the boundaries of human creativity. It will create designs and geometries that you may never have thought before, and the key point is that it saves a lot of time.

I think the role of designers in the future will shift from creators to decision makers. The use of AI tools will become a trend in the development of design.

I have not held a design exhibition yet.

The design inspiration of the work comes from the needs of the owner.

And as for how I’d feed that creativity—it’d be through observation of life and travelling the world.

Arts, classic architecture...etc —they all whisper stories.

We don’t define our own design style. People-oriented is the primary consideration. Through the techniques of interior architecture, we explore more possibilities of space. Space, light and shadow, materials and details are the focus of our space construction, further achieving a psychological ritual transformation.

I live in Taiwan. immersed in its layered history, vibrant street life, and complex identity—I imagine it would shape my design approach profoundly. Taiwan’s cultural heritage is a fascinating fusion of Indigenous roots, Han traditions, Japanese colonial influence, and contemporary globalism.

In daily life, small rituals (like walking through a night market or observing Ghost Festival) would constantly spark ideas about how design shapes mood and memory.

With a budget-driven mindset, designers must use powerful stories to convince clients to look beyond short-term cost considerations and adopt innovative materials and practices with more sustainable value.

If I were a designer working with companies, my approach would focus on co-creation, clarity, and courageous thinking.

Start by understanding not just what the company *wants*, but what they *value*, who their audience is, and what problem they’re really trying to solve.

Every time you work with a new designer, you need to inform the designer that company's SOP of drawing, construction, and remittance collection.

Smart switches, smart sockets, network cameras, smart air conditioners, and Heat Recovery Ventilation.

View the company calendar, adjust the current design, send the design sketch to the rendering company, and think about the content of the post.

Compared to ordinary people, designers are better at reading space and understanding its development and construction methods. However, the disadvantage is that they understand space from a professional perspective, which may lead to blind spots in understanding and lack the experience of ordinary people.

I think professional skills are the basic ones that must be possessed, but it is more important to maintain the original passion for design.

Since our work includes design and construction, construction usually starts at 8 o'clock, so we basically contact manufacturers and work teams in the morning, hold design meetings and construction meetings around noon, and deal with design and copywriting in the afternoon and evening.

I prefer to design commercial spaces, which are more able to break away from the previous design styles.

We work as a team, with a design team and a cooperating construction team.

Evolution of Light Diffraction Concept in The Sequence in GratingThe Sequence in Grating Residential House began with a fascination for diffraction as the “fourth way” light travels—beyond straight lines, refraction, and reflection. Inspired by Francesco Grimaldi’s observation that light can diffract through periodic structures, the design team set out to let light itself shape and narrate the interior space.1. Conceptual InspirationEarly design charrettes revolved around the idea of finding order within a disordered footprint by using light as both medium and message. Framing the home as a living “carrier” that records time through shifting illumination, the team envisioned a series of layered screens and voids. This conceptual seed aimed to let natural and artificial sources weave together, producing ever-changing optical phenomena reminiscent of grating diffraction.2. Early Spatial StrategiesTo maximize light interplay, the architects:- Removed non-essential partitions to open up the living area, increasing daylight penetration.- Introduced “virtual” facades—translucent partitions that sit in front of solid walls—so sunbeams and luminaires would cast shifting shadows.- Established a tone-on-tone color scheme, unifying surfaces so patterns of light and shadow become the primary visual interest.3. Material & Fixture ExperimentsIterative prototyping in the studio tested how different assemblies diffract and diffuse light across the day:- Irregular wood veneer facade divisions that break up incoming beams.- Wooden grille cabinet doors over backlit cavities.- Aluminum extruded light bars installed behind grilles to generate alternating bands of brightness.- A pendant “island chandelier” composed of glass modules sequenced like a diffraction grating.- Hunter Douglas Luminette® Shades silk curtains arranged in regular folds.- Strategic removal of one bedroom to enlarge the core living zone and amplify light-and-shadow dynamics.- Selection of timeless materials—stone and metal—that serve as stable canvases for ephemeral light effects.4. Final Implementation and Spatial ExperienceIn the completed home, daylight filters through layered screens and grilles, producing fine, lace-like shadows that shift as the sun travels. After dusk, concealed LEDs behind extruded bars and glass pendants recreate these diffraction patterns, extending the poetic dialogue between light and form. The consistent white-and-tone color palette ensures that material textures and the owner’s art collection are subtly animated by these luminous sequences.

Inspiration: Grating Diffraction ReimaginedThe wooden grille began as a literal translation of an optical diffraction grating—slender slits that fragment and choreograph light. By echoing Francesco Grimaldi’s “fourth way” of light travel, these fine wooden strips become active participants in the spatial narrative, casting lace-like shadows that shift with the sun and concealed LEDs.Crafting the Wooden Grille: Precision in Profile and Hue- 10 × 10 mm ProfileMirrors the narrow slits of a diffraction grating, offering tight control over light passage and shadow banding.- Water-Dyed VeneerInfuses each strip with consistent, saturated tones that celebrate natural wood grain without overpowering the tone-on-tone palette.- Modular AssemblyUniform dimensions simplify off-site fabrication and on-site installation, ensuring precise tolerances and minimal waste.Together, these meticulously crafted grilles transform light into a living diary—each beam and shadow recording moments of the day, while the water-dyed surfaces add depth and warmth, knitting functional precision with poetic atmosphere.

Pantheon’s Light and Temporal Spatial ExperienceThe Pantheon’s oculus floods its vast rotunda with a single, focused beam of sunlight that traverses the interior throughout the day and seasons. This dramatic illumination not only reveals the dome’s form but also embeds the passage of time into the spatial narrative.Ando’s Precision Apertures and Concrete LightTadao Ando sculpts natural light as though it were a material, cutting narrow apertures, deep reveals, and clerestories into heavy concrete walls. These carefully calibrated openings create stark contrasts of light and shadow, animating surfaces and guiding movement through each space.Translating Precedents into Grating DiffractionDrawing from these precedents, The Sequence in Grating uses a field of 10 × 10 mm wooden strips arranged like an optical diffraction grating. This system fragments incoming daylight much like the Pantheon’s singular oculus beam while echoing Ando’s precision apertures through modular, semi-transparent screens that merge virtual and solid facades.A Contemporary Diary of LightBy integrating irregular wood veneer divisions, aluminum extruded light bars behind grille doors, and tone-on-tone surfaces, the design choreographs both natural and artificial light into an ever-shifting “diary.” Each flicker of shadow and glow of LED extends the poetic dialogue between time, material, and memory, letting light itself compose the interior’s story.

Embracing Light as Spatial “Paper”The design team treated light’s movement through the home like writing a diary: the larger the “page,” the richer the story. Early on, they realized that existing partitions fragmented daylight too much, limiting the play of grating diffraction patterns on walls and floors. To give light a continuous canvas, they decided to remove a relatively underused room, effectively enlarging the living area and maximizing the reach of both natural and artificial illumination.Thought Process Behind the Reconfiguration- Prioritizing Light NarrativesBy collapsing virtual and solid facades around the deleted room, the architects created an uninterrupted field for drifting shadows and beams—amplifying the core concept of diffraction-based storytelling.- Function Over FormalityThe sacrificed room held little programmatic weight (a small guest or storage space), so its removal had minimal impact on essential functions but outsized impact on spatial quality.- Seamless Structural IntegrationWalls were recalibrated along the established rhythm of 10 × 10 mm grilles, ensuring the new opening honored the modular grid and preserved the home’s visual harmony.Impact on Family Dynamics- Expanded Communal ZoneWith a larger living area, family members naturally gravitate to a single, generous gathering space—encouraging more frequent interactions, shared activities, and storytelling under the ever-changing light.- Enhanced Visual ConnectivityRemoving barriers not only invites light deeper into the plan but also strengthens sightlines between seating, play, and study areas, fostering a sense of togetherness.By daring to erase a room, the project transforms light into a central design driver—both enriching the poetic dialogue of grating diffraction and knitting the household closer together through a luminous, shared living canvas.

Material Selection & Arrangement for Dynamic Light InteractionCreating a living “diary” of shifting illumination required choosing materials that both diffuse and animate sunlight. The strategy hinged on standardized, repeatable elements—each selected for its optical properties and ease of modular assembly.Key Translucent Materials- Wooden grille panels with 10 × 10 mm strips and water-dyed veneer- Silk curtains (Hunter Douglas Luminette® Shades) in regular folds- Glass modules sequenced into an island chandelier- Aluminum extruded light bars set behind grille doorsArrangement Strategies- Aligning grilles and light bars on a strict modular grid to ensure consistent diffraction patterns- Sequencing silk curtains in parallel runs to catch low-angle morning light and soften high-sun glare- Placing glass modules at different heights so sunbeams fracture through varied angles, creating prismatic highlights- Interleaving virtual (curtains, light bars) and solid (wood veneer) facades for layered shadow playArtificial Light IntegrationBy mirroring the daytime layout—LED strips behind grilles, pendant lights in glass modules, uplighting behind curtains—the same diffraction and diffusion effects replay at night. This continuity ensures the home remains an ever-evolving stage of light and shadow, from dawn through dusk to after dark.The meticulous selection and placement of these translucent systems transform changing sunlight into architectural storytelling—recording each hour’s mood in wood, fabric, and glass.

The tone-on-tone color scheme in The Sequence in Grating Residential House was carefully curated to serve as both a neutral canvas and a luminous amplifier—enhancing the architectural elements while allowing the owner’s art collection to take center stage.What Is “Tone-on-Tone”?In design, tone-on-tone refers to using variations of the same hue—different shades, tints, or saturations of a single color family. This approach creates depth and texture without introducing visual noise, making it ideal for spaces that need to feel both calm and expressive.Design Intent: A Living GalleryThe architects approached the home as a spatial diary, where light, shadow, and materiality record the passage of time. To support this narrative:- Walls, ceilings, and cabinetry were finished in subtle gradations of whites, beiges, and warm greys.- Wooden grilles and water-dyed veneers added warmth and rhythm without overwhelming the visual field.- Lighting and translucent materials were layered to animate the surfaces throughout the day.This restrained palette ensured that the owner’s art collection—likely rich in color, texture, and form—could breathe within the space, standing out against a harmonious backdrop.Result: A Poetic CoexistenceThe result is a home that feels serene yet expressive, where the architecture doesn’t compete with the artwork but rather elevates it through contrast, clarity, and light. The tone-on-tone palette becomes a quiet stage—one that shifts subtly with the day’s light and the viewer’s movement.

The idea of space as a carrier recording the mark of time in The Sequence in Grating Residential House is not just poetic—it’s deeply embedded in the project’s spatial logic, material choices, and lighting choreography. The design transforms the home into a living diary, where light becomes the ink and architecture the page.Temporal Narrative Through Design Elements1. Grating Diffraction as a Conceptual FrameworkInspired by Francesco Grimaldi’s notion that light can travel through diffraction, the design uses this phenomenon to visualize time. As light filters through layered materials, it creates shifting patterns that evolve throughout the day—marking time like a sundial in motion.2. Virtual and Solid FacadesThe interplay between translucent and opaque surfaces—such as wooden grilles, silk curtains, and glass modules—creates a dynamic canvas for light and shadow. These layers allow natural and artificial light to interact in ways that change hourly and seasonally, embedding the passage of time into the spatial experience.3. Removal of a Room to Expand the “Page”To amplify the light’s reach and narrative potential, the designers removed a relatively unimportant room. This bold move enlarged the living space, allowing more sunlight to enter and creating a broader surface for light to “write” upon. It also fostered greater family interaction, reinforcing the idea that time is not just visual but social.4. Sequenced Materials and Fixtures- Irregular wood veneer divisions and wooden grille cabinet doors fragment light into fine, lace-like shadows.- Aluminum extruded light bars behind grilles create layered illumination at night, continuing the temporal story after sunset.- Glass pendant modules and Hunter Douglas Luminette® Shades further modulate light, casting prismatic or diffused effects depending on the time of day.5. Tone-on-Tone Palette as a Neutral CanvasThe restrained color scheme ensures that light and shadow—not pigment—become the primary visual actors. This allows the space to shift subtly with time, while also highlighting the owner’s art collection as part of the evolving narrative.

The integration of Hunter Douglas Luminette® Shades and custom lighting in The Sequence in Grating Residential House was a masterclass in orchestrating light as both a functional necessity and an artistic medium. These elements were not simply layered for effect—they were sequenced like instruments in a symphony, each contributing to a spatial narrative that evolves throughout the day.Hunter Douglas Luminette® Shades: Diffusion with PrecisionThese silk-like vertical sheers were chosen for their ability to:- Diffuse harsh daylight while maintaining a soft, ambient glow- Respond to changing sun angles, filtering light in a way that mimics natural atmospheric shifts- Introduce rhythmic folds that echo the architectural grid, reinforcing the home’s modular languagePlaced in the living room in a regular sequence, the shades act as a translucent veil—softening incoming light and casting gentle, linear shadows that animate the tone-on-tone surfaces.Custom Lighting: Extending the Narrative into NightTo complement the natural light effects, the design team embedded custom lighting into architectural elements:- Aluminum extruded light bars were installed behind wooden grille cabinet doors, creating a layered interplay of light and shadow even after sunset- A glass island chandelier in the dining area was composed of regularly sequenced modules, refracting artificial light like a diffraction grating—mirroring the behavior of sunlight during the day- Indirect lighting was integrated into ceiling trusses and behind curtains to simulate the soft glow of dawn or duskOrchestration StrategyThe key was sequencing—not just layering. Each material and fixture was placed in alignment with the home’s modular grid, ensuring that light (natural or artificial) would interact predictably and poetically with surfaces. This allowed the space to function beautifully by day and transform into a luminous sculpture by night.

The use of stone and metal in The Sequence in Grating Residential House is a deliberate material strategy that supports the project’s core vision: space as a carrier of time. These materials were chosen not only for their durability and elegance, but for their ability to record, reflect, and respond to light—the central medium through which the home expresses the passage of time.Stone: A Timeless Canvas for Light and Shadow- Natural texture and grain in stone surfaces subtly reveal the angle and intensity of light throughout the day.- Its inherent permanence contrasts with the ephemeral nature of light, grounding the space while allowing illumination to “write” across its surface.- Stone’s cool, matte finish enhances the tone-on-tone palette, offering a quiet backdrop that doesn’t compete with the owner’s art collection.“We try to show the texture of the material itself… stone and metal are more timeless materials than natural wood veneer.” — Project StatementMetal: Reflective Precision and Structural Clarity- Aluminum extruded light bars and stainless-steel mesh are used to modulate artificial light, creating layered shadows and reflections that evolve with time.- Metal’s reflectivity allows it to bounce light deeper into the space, extending the reach of both natural and artificial sources.- Its clean lines and modularity reinforce the architectural rhythm, echoing the project’s conceptual foundation in diffraction and sequence.Together, these materials act as silent narrators—their surfaces changing subtly with each hour, season, and source of illumination. They embody the project’s poetic ambition: to make time visible through architecture.

The Sequence in Grating Residential House, awarded the 2025 Bronze A' Design Award in Interior Space and Exhibition Design, is poised to influence the future of residential interiors by redefining how light manipulation, spatial sequencing, and material restraint can create emotionally resonant, time-sensitive environments.Projected Influence on Future Residential Design1. Light as a Spatial Medium, Not Just IlluminationThis project elevates light from a utility to a narrative device. By using standardized translucent materials—wooden grilles, silk curtains, and glass modules—it demonstrates how homes can become living diaries, recording the passage of time through shifting shadows and reflections.Future impact:Designers may increasingly treat daylight and artificial light as compositional tools, integrating them into the architectural rhythm to evoke mood, memory, and ritual.2. Spatial Sequence as Psychological JourneyThe home’s layout—especially the removal of a room to expand the living area—prioritizes experiential flow over rigid programmatic zoning. The sequence of spaces is choreographed to guide the body and eye through a temporal and emotional arc.Future impact:Expect more residential interiors to adopt ritual-based planning, where movement, light, and material transitions are designed to support mindfulness, family interaction, and sensory awareness.3. Tone-on-Tone Minimalism with Emotional DepthRather than stark minimalism, the project uses a tone-on-tone palette to create a calm, luminous backdrop that enhances both architectural detail and the owner’s art collection. This approach balances restraint with richness.Future impact:Designers may embrace quiet materiality—stone, metal, wood, and fabric in subtle hues—to create interiors that are timeless, adaptable, and emotionally grounded.4. Hybrid Craftsmanship and ModularityThe project’s use of 10 × 10 mm wooden grilles, extruded aluminum light bars, and prefabricated elements shows how precision detailing and modular thinking can coexist.Future impact:We may see a rise in prefabricated artisanal components—elements that are mass-customized to bring warmth, texture, and narrative into fast-paced construction timelines.This project doesn’t just reflect current trends—it sets a new benchmark for how residential interiors can be poetic, precise, and profoundly human.

The 45-days deadline to launch In Between Octaves Japanese Ramen House in time for Christmas events pushed designer Che Yung Kung and the team to make bold, efficient choices that still honored the spirit of Japanese ramen culture.Time-Driven Design DecisionsModular construction techniques were prioritized to speed up installation, such as using prefabricated wooden trusses and stainless steel mesh facades.The open kitchen bar with sliding windows allowed for rapid assembly while enhancing customer interaction.A central axis grid layout was used to streamline spatial planning, reducing time spent on complex architectural adjustments.Innovative Solutions Born from PressureCalligraphy lanterns were used not just as decor but as spatial dividers, creating ambiance and structure simultaneously.A looped kitchen circulation system with dual food delivery ports enabled seamless operations—critical for high-volume holiday traffic.Atmospheric lighting and textured wall from wallpaper were chosen for their quick install times and high visual impact.

The open kitchen design with sliding windows in In Between Octaves Japanese Ramen House, created by Che Yung Kung, is deeply rooted in personal experiences of dining in Japan—and it’s more than just an aesthetic choice. It’s a spatial narrative that bridges memory, tradition, and engagement.Personal Experience as Design CatalystThe designer recalls the thrill of sitting at a ramen counter in Japan, watching chefs prepare each bowl with precision and passion. The shaking of noodles, the spirited shouts, and the intimate proximity to the cooking process left a lasting impression. These sensory memories became the foundation for the architectural concept.“We remember how lucky we were to get seats at the counter… the way they shook the noodles, accompanied by their spirited shouts, made us even more excited for the ramen to be served.” — Che Yung KungArchitectural Translation: Sliding Windows & Open Kitchen- Sliding windows allow for a dynamic threshold between the kitchen and dining area, echoing the transparency and immediacy of traditional ramen stalls.- The O-shaped circulation around the kitchen ensures fluid movement of staff and food, while keeping the chef visible and central to the dining experience.- Calligraphy lanterns and rhythmic spatial elements frame the kitchen like a musical score, reinforcing the metaphor of ramen-making as a performance.Customer Engagement & Cultural Resonance- The open kitchen fosters emotional connection between diners and chefs, enhancing trust and anticipation.- It invites diners to witness craftsmanship, turning a meal into a multisensory event.- This setup mirrors the Japanese omotenashi spirit—hospitality rooted in sincerity and attentiveness.Broader Design InsightThis design aligns with broader trends in ramen architecture:- Open kitchens are increasingly used to build transparency and authenticity.- They create a theatrical experience, where the act of cooking becomes part of the dining ritual.

Fast-Track Design: 45 Days to Christmas OpeningCompleting In Between Octaves Japanese Ramen House in just 45 days meant every decision had to serve schedule and quality simultaneously. From day one, the project team mapped out critical paths, locked in vendor lead times, and built a rolling two-week look-ahead. Lean Scheduling & Workflow Optimization- Prefabrication Wherever PossibleWooden roof trusses, bathroom pods, and façade frames were built off-site and simply slotted into place.- Simplified Material PaletteBy limiting finishes to white porcelain tile, veneered plywood, and stainless-steel mesh, procurement cycles shrank dramatically.Rapid-Install Systems & Prefab Details- Sliding-window Kitchen FaçadeFunctioned as both dining counter and rapid-mount cladding, merging two trades into one installation step.- Batch-Produced Calligraphy LanternsLantern frames, wiring, and hand-brushed paper sleeves were completed off-site, then hung in minutes on site.

Integrating Oriental Elements in a Western MallBlending Japanese authenticity within a sanitized, westernized mall demands deliberate contrasts. In Between Octaves achieves cultural harmony by weaving traditional references into a contemporary, minimalist shell—inviting diners to experience Japan without leaving the mall’s sleek context.1. Harmonized Material & Color PaletteA restrained palette of white porcelain tile and warm wood grain bridges East and West.- White tile evokes cleanliness and modern retail sensibilities.- Wood grain panels recall Japanese timber craftsmanship.- Stainless-steel mesh introduces an industrial edge common in malls.This triad ensures visual continuity with surrounding stores while grounding the space in Japanese materiality.2. Calligraphy Lantern “Musical Score”Handwritten paper lanterns suspended above the kitchen and dining area perform like notes on a staff:- Each lantern bears fluid brush strokes, echoing traditional shodo.- Their linear arrangement frames the open kitchen, guiding sightlines.- Soft, diffused light reinforces an intimate, ritualistic ambiance.By treating lanterns as both functional lighting and cultural iconography, the design sings a Japanese melody within a neutral mall backdrop.3. Open Kitchen & Sliding window facadeBorrowing from street-side ramen stalls, sliding windows stitch kitchen and dining together:- Windows slide open to reveal chefs at work—mirroring traditional “yatai.”- Guests witness ramen craft firsthand, feel the efforts of the ramen chef.4. Spatial Rhythm & O-Shaped CirculationCirculation follows a continuous loop around an O-shaped kitchen “island”:- Diners move from queue to seating with unimpeded flow, as in busy Fukuoka stalls.- Service staff navigate efficiently, minimizing back-of-house congestion.- The shape fosters communal encounters, echoing the conviviality of ramen culture.This choreography embeds Japanese dining rituals into the mall’s circulation pattern.By layering these strategies—material resonance, calligraphic light, dynamic transparency, and ritual circulation—In Between Octaves preserves the soul of a Japanese ramen bar within the shell of a western mall.

Developing the O-Shaped CirculationMapping Core Functional ZonesEvery ramen house revolves around three essential activities: food preparation, front-of-house service, and post-service clearing. By plotting these areas onto a continuous, looped plan, we eliminated dead-end corridors and backtracking. This meant:- Chefs, servers, and bussers never crossed paths unnecessarily.- Key workstations sat side by side, reducing wasted footsteps.- Hand-off points (food pass-throughs, dirty-dish hatches) aligned directly across from each other.Iterative Space-Planning Process- Bubble DiagramsEarly sketches clustered prep, service, and cleaning “bubbles” in a ring.- Line-of-Sight StudiesWe ran visibility analyses so chefs could glance at diners, and bussers could spot empty bowls without interrupting service.- Mock-Up Walk-ThroughsOn-site tape layouts confirmed that a 1.2 m-wide corridor around the island allowed two staff members to pass comfortably, even during peak rush.Enhancing Staff Performance- Ergonomic ReachCore tools, ingredients, and service ware sit within a 60 cm radius of each workstation, slashing arm-reach time.- Split Service PortsTwo opposed pass-through windows let cooks send bowls out and bussers retrieve dishes simultaneously.- Clear Back-of-House AccessA hidden hatch into the cleaning area keeps dirty dishes off sightlines and maintains hygiene flow.Enriching the Dining Atmosphere- Continuous ConnectionDiners circle the kitchen island, turning a meal into a shared performance.- Visual RhythmCalligraphy lanterns above the corridor trace the O-shape, guiding guests through a spatial narrative.- Communal EnergyThe loop fosters chance encounters between strangers, echoing the convivial buzz of Fukuoka ramen counters.

Material Palette: White and Wood GrainThe design anchors the ramen bar as a contemporary stage by pairing pristine white surfaces with warm wood grain panels. This duality creates a clean, bright backdrop that recalls modern retail fixtures while inviting the natural warmth and tactility of traditional Japanese timber craftsmanship.Spatial Narrative Through WhiteWhite surfaces — from porcelain‐like tiles to texture wallpaper walls — amplify natural and artificial light, making the compact mall setting feel expansive. This brightness frames the open kitchen as a spectacle, turning every splash of broth or flourish of calligraphy lantern light into a vivid performance.Wood Grain’s Sensory WarmthContrasting the white, wood grain panels introduce texture and depth. Their subtle veining and soft tones evoke Japanese joinery and tatami mat underlay, offering diners a tactile sense of authenticity. The material’s warmth also balances the kitchen’s stainless‐steel mesh and metal fixtures, grounding the space in natural resonance.Harmonizing East and WestBy limiting finishes to white and wood grain, the design bridges the mall’s sleek minimalism with the warmth of a street‐side ramen stall. The result is a spatial narrative where contemporary formality and traditional craftsmanship coexist—inviting guests to experience Japanese omotenashi within a western retail shell.

Acoustic Enrichment and Atmospheric Lighting Through StructureIn Between Octaves Japanese Ramen House weaves stainless-steel expanded mesh and exposed wooden trusses into its ceiling and façade to serve dual roles—softening the space’s acoustics while sculpting a rich play of light and shadow.1. Wooden Trusses: Warmth, Structure, and Sound Diffusion- Acoustic DiffusionThe exposed trusses break up flat ceiling planes, scattering sound waves and reducing flutter echoes—so the clatter of bowls and hum of conversation stays lively but never harsh.- Integrated Ambient LightingLinear LED fixtures are recessed into the truss depth, casting gentle uplight onto the ceiling and downlight across seating. This indirect illumination highlights the wood’s grain and creates a cocoon-like warmth above the ramen bar.2. Stainless-Steel Expanded Mesh: Translucent Veil and Diffuser- Sound ScatteringThe perforated mesh façade acts as a lightweight acoustic diffuser, dispersing mid- and high-frequency noise. Behind the mesh, acoustic infill (fabric-covered panels or insulation) further tames reverberation without deadening the bustling atmosphere.- Dynamic Light ModelingMounted over backlit surfaces—linear wall washers, calligraphy lanterns, or concealed LEDs—the mesh filters and fragments beams into a lace-like pattern. As staff move and light shifts, dancing shadows animate the truss façade, reinforcing the space’s performative rhythm.3. Synergy of ElementsTogether, these architectural details transform a functional mall kiosk into an immersive ramen theatre—where sound is crisp but contained, and light becomes an active performer.

Isshokenmei Embodied in Spatial Layout and Visual ElementsSpatial layout turns every step of meal preparation into a choreographed ritual, reflecting the chefs’ unwavering spirit of doing one’s best from start to finish. By framing the kitchen as the heart of the plan, diners and staff engage in an unbroken loop of focused performance—mirroring the continuous dedication of Isshokenmei craftsmanship.Spatial Layout as Ritual Performance- Central open kitchen anchors an O-shaped circulation, ensuring chefs, servers, and bussers move in a seamless, disciplined flow.- Sliding-window façade dissolves barriers between cook and guest, reinforcing transparent mastery at every interaction.- Linear arrangement of workstations reads like movements in a composition, each station highlighting a precise stage of ramen creation.Visual Elements as Craftsmanship ScoreVisual treatments amplify the narrative of excellence, transforming materials and light into active participants in the performance.- Hand-brushed calligraphy lanterns arrayed like musical notation celebrate the rhythmic precision of each ladle and noodle toss.- Contrasting white tiles and warm wood grain evoke both exactitude and human warmth, embodying technical rigor tempered by hospitality.- Dynamic uplighting through wooden trusses and patterned shadows from stainless-steel mesh spotlight chefs’ gestures, casting every action in a heroic glow.

Maximizing Efficiency in 74 m²Within the tight 74 m² envelope, every design move had to pull double duty—serving both function and form. By layering modular planning, multi-functional fixtures, vertical strategies, and a restrained aesthetic, the space feels generous, purposeful, and distinctly Japanese.1. Modular Grid and Prefabrication- Prefabricated trusses, façade frames, and bathroom pods reduced on-site build time and ensured precise tolerances.- This grid-driven approach minimized waste and enabled parallel construction workflows, critical for both efficiency and visual harmony.2. Multi-Functional Fixtures- The sliding-window kitchen façade doubles as serving counter and cladding, collapsing two trades into one installation step.- Integrated pass-throughs align food delivery, dish return, and garbage drops, eliminating extra corridors and back-of-house clutter.- Bench seating tucked under the counter maximizes circulation width without sacrificing guest capacity or comfort.3. Vertical Layering & Spatial Depth- Exposed wooden trusses lift the eye upward, imparting a sense of volume despite the compact footprint.- Floor-to-ceiling glass frontage visually extends the interior into the mall concourse, drawing natural light deep into the plan.- Layered ceiling elements—mesh, lanterns, linear lighting—create rhythmic patterns that broaden perceived scale and guide movement.4. Visual Clarity Through Restraint- A white-and-wood palette reflects light, unifies surfaces, and prevents visual clutter in tight quarters.- Stainless-steel expanded mesh adds textural depth without bulk, filtering light and hinting at hidden acoustic infill.- Hand-written calligraphy lanterns function as both lighting fixtures and wayfinding markers, stitching together kitchen, queue, and dining areas.

Future Impact of In Between Octaves Japanese Ramen HouseThe Bronze A′ Design Award in Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design not only spotlights In Between Octaves as an exemplar of inventive hospitality design but also signals a shift in how restaurants can tell cultural stories through architecture. This recognition positions Taiwan’s design community on the global stage, encouraging peers to pursue narrative-rich interiors that fuse authenticity with contemporary rigor.Elevating Theatrical Open Kitchens- By celebrating the open, sliding-window kitchen as both service counter and performance stage, this project will inspire more restaurants to treat cooking as live theater—drawing guests into the craft rather than placing it behind closed doors.- Expect to see a surge in dynamic kitchen-front interfaces that prioritize transparency, engagement, and the ritual of preparation.Accelerating Prefabrication & Modular Strategies- The success of rapid-track construction and prefabricated modules in a high-pressure timeline will encourage wider adoption of off-site fabrication in hospitality.- Designers will increasingly employ grid-driven, repeatable elements—wooden trusses, mesh panels, service hatches—to compress schedules without sacrificing detail.Deepening Cultural Resonance in Malls and Beyond- In Between Octaves demonstrates how calligraphic lanterns and material palettes can anchor oriental identity within western-centric environments. Future mall-based concepts may follow suit, embedding localized craft into standardized retail shells.- This approach will ripple into pop-ups and global outposts, where context-sensitive detailing becomes a hallmark of authenticity.Inspiring Taiwan’s Design Community- Taiwanese studios will leverage this award as proof that local ingenuity competes internationally, fueling investment in research around acoustic diffusers, ritual circulation, and performative lighting.- Academic and professional dialogue will deepen around “Isshokenmei” as a guiding principle, translating dedication to craftsmanship into spatial form.Global Influence on Contemporary Restaurant Design- Across Asia, Europe, and North America, expect to see more ramen-style eateries—and beyond—adopting O-shaped flows, visible service ports, and narrative lighting to craft immersive dining journeys.- The industry will move toward blending rapid-deploy methods with poetic detailing, demonstrating that efficiency and emotional impact need not be mutually exclusive.