Lee Ho Fook

Techne Architecture + Interior Design has crafted a new incarnation for the second Lee Ho Fook restaurant, transforming a pocket sized space in Duckboard Place, off Flinders Lane, into a refined and modern interior, taking a creative approach to reference Chinese culture. The prolific Melbourne practice were tasked with designing a bespoke oriental inspired interior for the new location of Lee Ho Fook – the modern Chinese restaurant developed by industry heavy weights Peter Bartholomew and David Mackintosh of MoVida, Rosa’s Canteen and Pei Modern. The menu at Lee Ho Fook is the perfect example of modern fusion. Described by Head Chef Victor Liong as ‘not shit Chinese’, it has reinvented the old world flavours of the orient with fresh modern techniques and presentation. It’s an accessible, fine dining Chinese that Melbourne has been hungrily craving. Techne has perfectly translated Liong’s approach to Chinese cuisine into the design of the new location with a décor that subtly alludes to Chinese culture in the context of a thoroughly refined, modern aesthetic. “Ornament and decoration have been refined into a more minimal approach”, explains senior designer Jonny Mitchell. “The intention was to embrace the existing character of the building and contrast this with contemporary, minimal objects inserted into the space.” A striking cantilevered steel and American oak banquette seat defines the main downstairs dining area and creates a sense of lightness to the small space. Timber and glass partitions have also been used to zone this challengingly tight space, separating diners from the entrance and subtly conjuring visions of traditional Chinese room dividers. Spread across the two narrow floors of a late 19th century brick warehouse, the existing building boasts a colourful history – the building was reputedly used by 1920s gangster Squizzy Taylor – and stunning original features including robust Oregon timber trusses, raw brickwork, timber flooring, and street art. Referencing their extensive experience with Melbourne’s heritage buildings, Techne restored and integrated these latent conditions throughout the new design. These robust features are complimented by a material palette of American Oak with terrazzo and brick tiles, while leather detailing and custom designed carpets provide a softness to the space. Linear brass angles have also been used to add depth to vertical surfaces of key joinery pieces and the brass detailing continues through to the custom crafted light fittings. “Brass detailing on the joinery and lighting is a nod to the significance of gold to symbolize good luck and happiness in Chinese culture”, explains Mitchell. Techne have crafted a sophisticated and thoroughly modern interpretation of Chinese symbolism in response to the second Lee Ho Fook installment, which is certain to enjoy good fortune following its August opening.