13th December 2024 | IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN | BY SBID ShareTweetPinterestLinkedIn Designed by 4SPACE, Moli by SHI tells a tale as old as time, weaving traditional Chinese architecture with modern extravagance. The name “Moli” meaning “jasmine” in Chinese, carries profound symbolism associated with purity, grace, and elegance, immersing visitors in a feeling of opulence and sophistication right from arrival. 4SPACE 4SPACE Upon entering the restaurant, guests encounter traditional architectural elements reminiscent of a Chinese temple. Greeted by two guardian lion statues right at the reception, the statues set the tone for the immersive cultural experience that awaits. 4SPACE Walls adorned with classic carvings create a mesmerising backdrop, while plush banquettes featuring intricate Chinese artwork set the stage for a lavish dining experience. The central floor illuminates with a subtle glow as night descends, creating a magical atmosphere for refined dinners. 4SPACE 4SPACE The interior of the space showcases a captivating architectural feature deeply rooted in Chinese tradition—the Dougong system. Originating from ancient Chinese construction techniques, Dougong represents a distinctive method of interlocking wooden brackets that provide structural support within a building’s framework. This intricate and time-honoured element is prominently featured in the columns, contributing to the structural integrity of the space and its aesthetic appeal. 4SPACE The restaurant’s wall cladding is a testament to the meticulous artistry and cultural richness inherent in Chinese craftsmanship. Adorned with wood engravings, the surface becomes a canvas that elegantly tells a visual narrative, with each intricately carved detail capturing the essence of tradition and the enduring legacy of Chinese culture. 4SPACE 4SPACE Above, the ceiling features prominently hanging light features shaped in jasmine flowers, providing gentle and ambient lighting, further emphasising the essence of Moli. 4SPACE A metallic bead curtain flows into the space, merging the walls with the ceiling, gracefully mimicking the fluid movements of a dragon, as it weaves through the restaurant space and around the columns, starting from the entrance toward the end and grinding the guest gracefully through the space. 4SPACE In crafting the design concept, careful consideration was given to the selection of furniture; each piece was crafted to the small. The chosen furniture complements but actively implicates and portrays the underlying concept, seamlessly blending functionality with the rich cultural narrative. 4SPACE The seating arrangements and furniture are expertly crafted with a nod to traditional Chinese woodworking techniques. They are adorned with jacquard velvet fabric that presents an interpretation midway between a figurative depiction of magical tigers and the Chinese mythological realms. About 4SPACE 4SPACE is committed to high quality of work and superior care in all aspects of our business. One of the Top 20 interior design firms in the Middle East in reference to the Commercial Interior Design Magazine published last February 2019. Led by major partners Amjad Hourieh and Firas Alsahin, our company has become one of the region’s most respected firms, with more than 20 years of industry experience. We have helped create environments that inspire and impact users by providing the local industry with our extensive practical knowledge, be it for retail, hospitality and commercial spaces, or residential and living spaces. Our mission is to achieve success through delivering quality service steered by our passion for excellence, to define the region’s industry practices and to create market benchmarks of international standards. Visit Profile If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.