Silver Interior Space and Exhibition Design · 2025
Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant
- A' Design Award 2025 Silver Winner in Interior Space and Exhibition Design
- Awarded April 15, 2025
- CLIENT: squaremeter Design Studio
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 24,159
- Verification code CE49F310E0 · Verify this award
About Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant
This project is located in Tainan, regarded as the most historically significant city in Taiwan. Therefore, the design concept aims to present various materials in their original forms to create spatial depth while showcasing the rustic charm of Tainan. The concrete bar counter serves as the core of the space, surrounded by copper plates and raw wood veneers that will change in appearance over time. This symbolizes the unique culture of Tainan, which has developed through historical transitions and evolution.
squaremeter Design Studio's Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant emerges from a tradition of intimate gathering spaces where the preparation and sharing of food becomes theatrical experience, translating the atmospheric density of traditional establishments into contemporary material language while preserving essential qualities of warmth and welcome. The interior demonstrates remarkable facility in orchestrating diverse materials into harmonious dialogue: walnut veneers establishing enveloping warmth, verde antico marble contributing geological gravitas, backlit honey onyx introducing luminous mystery, and polished brass elements providing reflective accents that animate the space with captured light. The compositional strategy creates clear functional zoning while maintaining visual continuity through repeated material motifs, the green marble appearing both at the service counter and intimate table surfaces, establishing rhythm through recurrence. Particularly accomplished is the treatment of the central arched doorway, which functions simultaneously as practical threshold and symbolic passage, its softened geometry and shadowed depth inviting contemplation of spaces beyond while anchoring the perspectival recession. The lighting design demonstrates sophisticated understanding of hospitality atmosphere, layering dramatic backlighting, focused task illumination, and gentle accent sources to create an environment that feels both professionally equipped and genuinely intimate. The burgundy leather banquette introduces chromatic warmth that complements rather than competes with surrounding earth tones, its continuous form suggesting the embrace of shared experience. Floor treatment in veined marble provides necessary cool counterpoint to pervasive warmth while its irregular patterning suggests organic formation processes that connect constructed space to natural material origins. The handwritten chalkboard menu contributes ephemeral, human-scaled communication within an otherwise precisely crafted environment. Viewers might consider how the space negotiates between theatrical presentation and domestic comfort, between contemporary refinement and traditional hospitality values.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- A handcrafted concrete bar counter was designed as the core element of the entire space. After the concrete was poured, the owner was invited to participate in the chiseling process, deepening the connection between the owner, the customers, and the space itself. The bar is surrounded by untreated copper plates and raw walnut veneer, which will change in appearance over time. This symbolizes the unique culture of Tainan, shaped by historical changes and evolution.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- The site is an old four-story house. The first floor is primarily designated for dining and the kitchen, while the second floor serves as private dining rooms. The third and fourth floors are allocated for staff rest and storage of goods. The design focuses mainly on the exterior and the spaces of the first and second floors. The total designed area for the first and second floors is 65 square meters.
- Tags
- Natural, Izakaya, squaremeter Design Studio, Taiwan, Tainan
- Production Technology
- The original building's green tiles on the exterior were retained and complemented with walnut veneer on the interior. The contrasting colors are accentuated with gold copper sheets. Additionally, the original gray marble flooring was preserved and paired with a newly constructed concrete bar counter, enhancing the overall stability and groundedness of the space. The design maintains the building's original features, striking a balance between historical elements and new materials, ensuring that the building stands out in the alleys of Tainan without appearing out of place.
- Design Challenge
- Integrating the design with the original building conditions was the biggest challenge, leading to several proposed solutions. The green tiles on the exterior of the building and the walnut veneer on the interior, along with contrasting colors and gold brass accents, create a harmonious overall space with a bright focal point. The original flooring and the gray color of the new concrete bar contribute to the calmness of the space. The wall of the staircase leading to the upper floor features a high-brightness blue color, transforming the space and reducing visual fatigue caused by the same color tone over a large area. The feature wall lamps and the hand-hewn bar also add liveliness to the space.
- Project Duration
- This project was completed in December 2023 in Tainan, Taiwan, and officially opened in January 2024.
- Operation Flow
- In terms of the flow of use, the space used by consumers and staff is separated, with the front area, where consumers are located, as the main focus of the design. In the back area, a large kitchen space has been planned to ensure that staff do not interfere with the consumers' route when delivering or receiving food. This arrangement allows consumers to enjoy a better dining experience.
- Research
- The site of this project is located in a city rich in historical and cultural background. Therefore, the goal is not only to create a unique design but also to develop a space that integrates local cultural characteristics. Materials that are raw and evolve over time, such as copper sheets, concrete, and natural wood veneer, have been chosen as part of the design solution. The integration of people, space, time, and place is the core of the design philosophy. Consequently, context-sensitive design has always been the primary consideration and goal.
- Inspiration
- This project is located in Tainan, one of Taiwan's most historically rich cities. Connecting the restaurant with Tainan's history was the primary design consideration. Therefore, various materials were presented in their original forms to create spatial layering while showcasing Tainan's local culture. By integrating the local culture of Tainan's ancient capital, the design preserves the building's rustic charm while infusing it with new vitality.
- Image Credits
- Photographer Weimax Studio, 2024.
Colors of Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant
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G0E23 ShopDesign Interview about Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant
The design is inspired by local cultural narratives and materials, aiming to build a spatial experience that resonates with the neighborhood and its people. Our principle is to respect and reinterpret context.
Our focus was to create a space that blends functionality with emotional memory. We wanted to build not just a restaurant, but a cultural hub that evokes a sense of place.
We plan to further evolve this spatial language in other cultural and commercial contexts. It may become a case study or model for future community-focused projects.
From initial concept to detailed design, it took approximately 4 to 5 months.
It was a commissioned project, but we were given creative freedom. The concept arose from both client dialogue and our own site-driven inspiration.
The space is currently in operation by our client. We retain the design rights and are open to future collaborations or adaptations.
We have a deep interest in public life and urban texture. Designing social spaces like this aligns with our vision to shape meaningful urban experiences.
Yes, we were inspired by architect Tadao Ando and artist Piet Mondrian. Ando’s use of light, concrete, and calm spatial composition influenced our approach to atmosphere and materials. Mondrian’s bold use of primary colors and geometric balance inspired how we applied color to shape visual rhythm in the space.
Urban dwellers seeking a deeper, more authentic local dining experience, as well as visitors interested in cultural atmospheres.
Its uniqueness lies in the poetic integration of cultural narrative, material tactility, and spatial rhythm to foster a sense of belonging.
The name “Izakaya 9am 5pm” conveys our idea of extending the izakaya experience from night into daytime. We wanted guests to enjoy the relaxed and social spirit of an izakaya even in the morning or afternoon, and to experience the transformation of atmosphere across the day.
We used Auto CAD, 3Ds MAX and Adobe Suite for 3D modeling and presentations, alongside physical model-making for tactile decision-making.
Its emotional tactility—a spatial experience that’s both grounded in local memory and yet subtly surreal.
Yes, we collaborated with local craftsmen, lighting specialists, and kitchen consultants to ensure cultural accuracy and functionality.
Technology helped us simulate lighting atmospheres and optimize space efficiency. Yet, the focus remained on tactile, human-scaled experience.
Yes, we studied user behavior patterns, site history, and neighborhood foot traffic to inform the layout and flow.
Balancing heritage elements with contemporary aesthetics, and coordinating with multiple specialists to ensure detail integrity.
We believed the project had a story worth sharing on a global stage and hoped it would open dialogue on culturally responsive design.
We refined our ability to translate intangible cultural elements into tangible spatial expressions, and improved communication with craftspeople.
We hope this project encourages designers to look inward—to their own cultural roots—as a source of innovation and identity.
Grand Interview about Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant
In this project, we wanted to reflect Tainan’s multi-layered context by using materials that naturally change over time. The copper plates oxidize and develop patina, and the concrete surfaces record traces of use. We see the space as an extension of the city’s ongoing transformation—where history and contemporary life coexist. By choosing materials that carry the marks of time, we hope to let visitors feel the city’s living heritage and vibrant evolution.
The bar counter is the core of the space, so we invited the owner to participate in the chiseling process. This was not just about physical work but about embedding emotional connection and memories into the space. When guests interact with the counter, they also connect with this story of collaboration. We believe that when designers and owners build a space together, it naturally carries more warmth and a deeper sense of belonging for future users.
Our principle is to respect and retain meaningful existing elements while introducing new materials that highlight them. The old green tiles and marble floors carry the memories of the alley, while walnut veneer and raw concrete add a contemporary softness and texture. By letting old and new coexist and speak to each other, we created an atmosphere that feels both authentic and fresh.
The base palette is mainly grey, wood, and metal tones. Without a highlight, the space could feel monotonous. We introduced a vivid blue for the staircase wall to draw the eye and break the neutral scheme, providing a fresh visual anchor. The blue also contrasts with the warm tones of copper, adding depth while keeping the overall mood balanced and cohesive.
Working with a compact, multi-level layout was both a challenge and an opportunity. Each floor serves a different purpose, from the interactive bar to private dining. The staircase links them spatially and visually. Consistent materials and tones unify the levels, while subtle changes in wall treatments and lighting give each area its own character. This creates a layered yet connected experience.
In a small space, circulation planning is crucial. We analyzed user habits to keep the front-of-house and back-of-house paths as separate as possible, avoiding conflicts and ensuring smooth service. The boundaries are formed naturally by the bar counter and wall placements, without unnecessary partitions, so the space stays open and visually clear while functioning efficiently.
The green tiles are a signature feature of the neighborhood’s older buildings, so preserving them makes the restaurant feel rooted in its alley setting. Inside, the walnut veneer extends this warm, nostalgic feeling and reinterprets it through a modern lens. The contrast and harmony between these materials make the restaurant feel like a natural part of the street’s story rather than an isolated insert.
We see space as a living container that should grow and change with its users. Materials like copper and concrete record the passage of time through marks, wear, and patina. This aligns with our core philosophy that design is not static but should adapt and accompany people’s daily lives, capturing moments and memories along the way.
The bar counter is the heart of a traditional izakaya—people gather, interact, and connect around it. We chose raw concrete to emphasize a handcrafted, honest materiality that invites touch and use. It becomes the anchor where people meet, share stories, and bring the space to life. It’s not just furniture; it’s a social connector.
This project reminds us that historic spaces should not just be preserved but actively lived in and reimagined. For us, designing restaurants in heritage areas is about finding points where old stories and contemporary life intersect. It’s not about copying the past but giving it a new role in daily life, so the space stays meaningful and relevant for the community.