Moody and seductive Sushi Zen by LDH Design opens in Beijing
EALSEE - WANG Ting

Moody and seductive Sushi Zen by LDH Design opens in Beijing

22 Mar 2023  •  News  •  By Allie Shiell

At No. 33 Wusi Street in Beijing’s Dongcheng District, LDH Design has recently completed works on Sushi Zen, a Japanese banquet restaurant in a refurbished 200-year-old building facing the 600-year-old Imperial Palace. The ambiance-filled interiors by LIU Doahua fuse oriental aesthetics with western traditions, resulting in a visual experience that is diverse and intriguing in the moods created.

photo_credit EALSEE - WANG Ting
EALSEE - WANG Ting

The Cloud Café on the first floor provides a lively setting before visitors ascend to the second level, where Sushi Zen is located. The second-floor welcoming counter, created with natural marble and firelight lines, provides a warm and intoxicating feeling upon entry.

photo_credit EALSEE - WANG Ting
EALSEE - WANG Ting

Beyond the counter, there are wabi-sabi bryophytes in the corner, a rough wall resembling stone, low-light molding curved like a paper window, and a small flowing “mountain stream.” According to the designers, these elements were selected to give visitors the impression that they have entered a mountain temple.
Rounds seats, a big cypress table, fabric drapes, and shadow windows further set the tone alongside shifting lines and moldings that come together in front of the space’s central table.

photo_credit EALSEE - WANG Ting
EALSEE - WANG Ting

The mirror and the black steel at the bar reflect one another and create the illusion of infinite space. The contrasting dark and light hues add visual layers and foster a cozy sense of equilibrium. 
Next to the main space are four distinct dining rooms named Chuan, Ze, Song, and He – which stand for mountain, river, green pine, and green cypress. 

photo_credit EALSEE - WANG Ting
EALSEE - WANG Ting

As is customary in Beijing, the building includes an enclosed courtyard. Visitors access the courtyard spaces along twisting wooden walkways on the roof encircled by maple and bamboo trees and interspersed with flagstone pathways. 

photo_credit EALSEE - WANG Ting
EALSEE - WANG Ting

From the roof terrace, guests can enjoy drinks heated by an open fire while taking in views of the royal architecture of the Forbidden City.

photo_credit EALSEE - WANG Ting
EALSEE - WANG Ting