The restaurant captures American and Chinese Cultures through layers of decorative design elements. Conceptualized around different dining experiences within the same restaurant, the rectangular space is sliced into three different zones, with each providing its own unique dining hall. Each zone [Bar, Communal and Dining] is separated through a design element, such as color, a steel louver wall or by a simple change in elevation or ceiling height.
Ping, image courtesy Division1 | Photo by Debi Fox
Ping, image courtesy Division1 | Photo by Debi Fox
The Bar is the most casual and the public zone of the restaurant. The zone is dominated by the long bar which is a unique feature in a Chinese restaurant. Red cedar planks are used on the bar top and bar canopy which continue on the facade of the restaurant in a linear manner, making the zone a threshold between indoor and outdoor. The bar also features built-in seating with wood tabletop’s which feature recessed lighting replacing the more traditional candle lighting.
Ping, image courtesy Division1 | Photo by Debi Fox
Ping, image courtesy Division1 | Photo by Debi Fox
The Communal is the semi-public zone defined by 14 feet long tables and 10 feet long lights above. Seen from the street through the solid steel panels and large glass façade the dining is the most private zone in the restaurant. The space is separated from the communal with a steel lover wall.
Ping, image courtesy Division1 | Photo by Debi Fox
Natural cedar wood strip ceiling continues to the outside to become part of the facade and signage. A large wine cabinet, another unique feature in a Chinese restaurant, terminates the space. The restaurant also features a wait area by the poured in place concrete hostess stand.
Ping - Floor plan, drawing courtesy Division1
Ping - Front elevation, drawing courtesy Division1
Ping - Front elevation, drawing courtesy Division1
+ Project credits / data
Project: Ping
Type: Hospitality | Restaurant
Size: 4,000 SF
Location: Shirlington, VA
Architect: Division1
Photographer: Debi Fox Photography
+ All images and drawings courtesy Division1 | Photo by Debi Fox Photography
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