When we were approached to design Hakshan Restaurant, it wasn’t just another interior design project—it was a journey into the values, culture, and purpose behind a truly meaningful brand. Hakshan 客善, a restaurant dedicated to serving Hakka cuisine, embodies much more than good food. Their name itself, meaning “kind-hearted and hospitable”, set the tone for the entire creative direction, whereby we are creating a warmth, generosity, and community space for Hakshan restaurant.
From the very beginning, Hakshan made it clear that their mission extends far beyond commerce. Not only do they serve traditional, heartwarming Hakka dishes, but they are also deeply committed to giving back—donating proceeds from each meal to charitable causes. This noble vision inspired our design approach, pushing us to think not only about aesthetic beauty but also how interior design can reflect kindness, sincerity, and peace.
Our main objective was to make guests feel like they were walking into a welcoming home, a place where every detail echoes hospitality and care. We wanted to translate Hakshan’s charitable spirit and heartfelt mission into a space that feels both soulful and grounded.
To achieve this emotional connection, we started with a warm color palette, rich in earthy tones that create a calm and inviting atmosphere. These colors are not only cozy, but also symbolically linked to comfort, kindness, and grounded values.
We extensively used natural timber finishes to add texture and authenticity—wood being a timeless element that brings warmth and nature into the space. The tactile quality of wood connects deeply with the human sense of comfort, enhancing the sense of “home” we aimed to deliver.
One of the most striking features is the curved arch wall, stretching gracefully from the ground and flowing up to the ceiling. This design element was intentionally crafted to symbolize the roof of a home—a visual metaphor that represents safety, protection, and shelter. When guests step into the restaurant, this architectural form subtly tells them: you’re safe here—you’re home, enjoying Hakka food.
At the heart of the restaurant sits a large, square-shaped ceiling fixture that emits a soft blue glow, mimicking the natural hue of daylight. It brings a sense of serenity and clarity. By mimicking natural skylight, it helps guests feel at ease and refreshed.
Adding to this calming atmosphere is the presence of indoor plants, scattered thoughtfully throughout the space. These touches of greenery not only inject life into the design, but also strengthen the restaurant’s connection to nature, balance, and health.
The spatial layout was also designed to reflect Hakshan’s generous spirit. We opted for an open plan to eliminate any sense of confinement, allowing light, air, and people to flow freely. It’s a symbolic gesture—an interior that breathes, opens up, and welcomes everyone.
The design of Hakshan Restaurant is much more than a visual identity—it’s a heartfelt translation of values into space. By blending home-like warmth, natural elements, and a spirit of giving, we’ve created an environment where guests don’t just eat—they feel cared for, connected, and at peace.
Designing Hakshan was not just about elevating Hakka cuisine in a beautiful setting, but also about telling a story—a story of kindness, generosity, and heartfelt hospitality.