Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur-based architecture practice Spacemen has created a restaurant that references to "primordial community cooking" in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Named Bar Kar, the 410-square-metre restaurant is charcaterized with an infinite firewood-lined pathway to evoke the local cooking tradition, while the earth-inspired materials give the sense of the ambiance of a cave-like space.

Guests begin their journey at the main entrance and are greeted by a distorted arch evoking the ambiance of a cave-like space. 

"Inside, patrons get immersed in an infinite firewood-lined pathway that leads towards the heart of the establishment," said Spacemen in its project description.

The interior layout takes a cavernous shape with its earthy terracotta hues. The design of the interor was inspired by the earth oven pits which in ancient times were used to cook and smoke food in the ground. 

At the heart of the space there are the two key features: a circular bar counter constructed out of red travertine and a plush banquet sofa seating area, anchored by a fiery gold metal mesh sculpture are both abstract interpretations of the elemental force of heat and fire. 

"For those seeking an interactive dining experience, the Chef’s Table offers a U-shaped counter constructed from grey travertine, accommodating up to 20 guests eager to engage with the chefs and witness the primordial style woodfire cooking up close," said Spacemen.

"The private dining room transports diners into a cocoon-like sanctuary, drawing inspiration from the organic contours of a cave, with cascading layers and a floating fire mesh sculpture above a striking red travertine dining table," the office added.

Focusing on the concept of primordial community cooking, the space is highlighted with elements of heat and fire. 

To strengthen this feeling, they are embodied in terracotta stucco walls, fiery mesh installations, and the earthy hues of red travertine, inviting guests on a culinary journey reminiscent of ancient cooking traditions.

Floor plan

Spacemen created a cavernous interior with rounded lines for a store in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The studio also designed Trove, a beauty features circular stainless-steel rainbow cabin in Kuala Lumpur.

Project facts

Project name: Bar Kar 

Architects: Spacemen Studio

Client: Barkar KL Sdn Bhd. 

Lead Architects: Edward Tan 

Team: Edward Chan, Wei Tan, Alvin Zhou, Efron Chen, Ashley Khaw. 

Location: Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Completion Year: 2024

Type of project: Restaurant

Gross Built Area (square meters): 410m2 

All images © The Space Storyteller.

All drawings © Spacemen Studio.

> via Spacemen Studio

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