FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Timber and Table: A Harmonious Blend of Heritage, Sustainability, and Modern Dining in Zhejiang

Timber and Table, conceived by designer Luxi Chen, stands as a testament to the enduring value of vernacular architecture, reimagined for contemporary hospitality. Located in Zhejiang, China, the restaurant occupies a carefully restored rural house, where original elements like exposed timber beams, tiled roofs, and a traditional siheyuan courtyard are preserved and celebrated. The design draws inspiration from the region's rich cultural heritage, with an emphasis on local craftsmanship and sustainable materials, resulting in a dining space that feels both timeless and inviting.

The transformation was achieved through a sensitive process of adaptive reuse. Instead of replacing aged materials, the design team employed a "repair as found" approach, retaining imperfections that tell the story of the building's past. Discreet structural reinforcements and modern building systems were integrated to ensure safety and comfort without compromising the building's historic character. The restaurant's layout connects formerly separate building volumes with a new transitional space and staircase, improving circulation while maintaining architectural integrity. At the heart of the project, the restored courtyard features a reflecting pool with koi fish, offering guests a tranquil sensory experience rooted in local tradition.

Timber and Table's unique blend of old and new extends to its handcrafted decor, natural finishes, and thoughtfully layered lighting, which together foster a warm, communal atmosphere. Guests are guided through intimate zones that evoke nostalgia and comfort, allowing them to form new memories in a space that honors its origins. The restaurant's design not only preserves cultural memory but also demonstrates how adaptive reuse can meet modern needs, earning it the Iron A' Design Award in Hospitality, Recreation, Travel, and Tourism Design for 2025. This recognition underscores the project's success in harmonizing tradition, sustainability, and contemporary function.

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