WAA Riverside Gastropub by Fon Studio in Beijing, China

Project: WAA Riverside Gastropub
Architects: Fon Studio
Location: No. 53 Maizidian Street, Chaayan District, Beijing, China
Area: 4,951 sq ft
Photography: Fon Studio

WAA Riverside Gastropub by Fon Studio

In the Liangmaqiao area of Beijing, there are many types of catering brands. Young entrepreneurs have gathered here in recent years for new business ideas. WAA represents a creative food and craft beer space based on a flexible layout, with customers dining here forming various scenarios. Interestingly, the restaurant is located in a distinctive building on the opposite bank of the Liangma River, with an independent and open terrace that naturally became a valuable resource for the shop.

The first issue concerns the compound building form, including an 'European' building and a square box at the entrance. On the other hand, improper layout results in numerous load-bearing columns and unpredictable distribution of natural light, although the interior height is sufficient.

With a new approach to brand product and proximity to the river, we aim to respond with a geometric form, creating moderate spatial dynamics. In this dark-toned environment, the space changes horizontally and vertically from start to finish, so people can enjoy a rich visual experience while dining and drinking.

The entrance box acts as the boundary between time and space, separating internal and external areas. A slowly rotating channel leads people inside, followed by a division that forms a window-side dining zone for multiple guests. The kitchen, brewery, and bar zones are classified as a single interface surface but show different states. For example, the kitchen uses a green circular window to showcase cooking processes inside and interesting interaction on the dark stone wall.

In the main dining area, a glass roof and lighting elements point to an elevated zone on the western side to reunite previously separated areas. To mitigate column bulkiness, we use coverings with different textures to unify the rotating top surface with them and a corresponding countertop designed in the same way to form a semi-open enclosed area.

The bar counter facade is made of wood and stainless steel, covering the main dining area and elevated zone. First, it enhances unity; it also creates a two-level bar seating area. The backdrop is fully transparent brewery zone where visitors can observe the craft beer production process.

Private zones such as restrooms and rooms are located behind the main space, but they also follow a unified design language.

We and WAA founders hope for a space that changes throughout the day and night here, making this food and drink meeting place constantly bring fresh energy to people, just like the river.

-Project description and images provided by Fon Studio

Plans