Located within the Shahe Golf Club in Shenzhen, The Gar is a dim sum restaurant that reinterprets the classic English club aesthetic through a contemporary lens. Designed to offer an atmosphere of understated luxury, the space carefully balances tradition and modernity, blending rich materiality with refined architectural detailing. The result is a dining experience that is both intimate and grand, a quiet retreat within the bustling technological hub of China’s Silicon Valley.

Concept & Design Approach
The design of The Gar is deeply rooted in the heritage of English clubs, with their emphasis on craftsmanship, material depth, and spatial hierarchy. Drawing from this legacy, the restaurant integrates a palette of rich dark timber, intricate metalwork, and plush textiles, creating an environment that is both stately and inviting. The goal was to craft a space that exudes a sense of exclusivity while maintaining an atmosphere of comfort and warmth.

Central to the design approach was the interplay of texture and tone. Dark timber paneling forms the backbone of the interiors, accentuated by brass detailing that introduces warmth and subtle ornamentation. Patterned fabrics, including classic British tartans, provide a layer of historical reference, connecting the design to the sporting traditions of golf clubs. These elements come together to establish a space that feels deeply rooted in tradition yet relevant to a contemporary dining experience.

Materiality & Craftsmanship
The selection of materials was driven by a commitment to quality and longevity. Custom-designed timber paneling, detailed with inlaid brass accents, defines the spatial character of the restaurant. Velvet and leather upholstery add tactile richness, while marble surfaces introduce a sense of refinement and contrast.

Throughout the space, bespoke lighting fixtures were designed to enhance the overall ambiance. Chandeliers with brass structures and frosted glass elements provide a soft, diffused glow, reinforcing the warm, intimate character of the interiors. Wall sconces and accent lighting highlight architectural details, creating a layered lighting scheme that shifts subtly between day and evening service.

The bar area, a focal point of the design, is framed by fluted timber paneling and topped with a marble counter that emphasizes both durability and elegance. Decorative screens featuring geometric brass inlays add a touch of Art Deco influence, bridging the historical references of the space with a more contemporary design language.

Spatial Organization & Experience
The layout of The Gar is designed to accommodate a range of dining experiences, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. A combination of banquettes, round tables, and private dining areas offers flexibility while maintaining a cohesive design narrative. The use of curved seating arrangements and high-backed chairs fosters a sense of enclosure and comfort, ensuring that guests can dine in an atmosphere that feels both private and engaging.

The circulation within the restaurant is structured to enhance the sense of discovery. Upon entry, guests are greeted by a reception area defined by textured wall panels and a marble-topped concierge desk. This transitional space serves as a prelude to the main dining area, where carefully curated design elements unfold in layers, drawing visitors further into the experience.

A key design feature is the integration of golf-inspired elements, subtly embedded within the decor. Wall-mounted antique golf mallets serve as sculptural accents, reinforcing the restaurant’s connection to its location within the golf club. These elements are thoughtfully positioned to be both functional and evocative, serving as conversation pieces without overpowering the overall design.

Lighting & Atmosphere
Lighting plays a crucial role in defining the ambiance of The Gar. A combination of pendant chandeliers, recessed lighting, and decorative sconces creates a dynamic yet cohesive lighting scheme. The intention was to craft a setting that adapts seamlessly to different times of the day, ensuring that the space feels inviting for both lunchtime dining and evening gatherings.

Custom-designed chandeliers serve as focal points, their brass and glass compositions echoing the refined aesthetic of the interiors. Meanwhile, indirect lighting enhances the architectural features, casting subtle shadows that add depth and dimension to the space. The overall effect is one of warmth and sophistication, where every element contributes to a harmonious visual experience.

Furniture & Detailing
Bespoke furniture pieces were developed to complement the architectural framework of the restaurant. Dining chairs upholstered in deep blue velvet feature brass ring pulls, a nod to traditional club seating. High-backed leather chairs in the private dining areas add a layer of formality, reinforcing the sense of exclusivity.

Tables are set with fine china and custom-designed tableware, ensuring that the dining experience extends beyond the physical space into the smallest details. This attention to detail underscores the project’s commitment to delivering an immersive experience, where design and gastronomy intersect seamlessly.

The meticulous selection of materials, attention to spatial composition, and integration of bespoke design elements result in an environment that is both luxurious and inviting.

Key Materials: Dark timber, brass, marble, velvet, leather
Lighting: Custom chandeliers, wall sconces, recessed lighting
Furniture: Bespoke seating, high-backed chairs, brass-accented dining chairs
Special Features: Antique golf mallets, patterned textiles, fluted paneling, geometric brass inlays