852 ATELIER + A BREAK AT THE ANONYMOUS STREET
For the ones who don't know it, I'm a HongKong resident since 2020, discovering from this megalopolis something new every single day. It is a place like none other.
With 6 other passionate designers living here as well, we challenged ourself to initiate this more tangible interpretation of what this city mean to us. At a very personal level, how could we transcribe the vibrance that we all feel about HongKong onto a unique singular piece, a very symbolic item: A Seat.
After several months of research, tests and refinements we gather friends and family for an open-air exhibition in partnership with the local bar "Craftissimo" in Sheung Wan to present our creations. And here is mine.
INSPIRATIONS
One place that struck me when I first discovered it was the Dai Pai Dong—iconic open-air food stalls in Hong Kong that capture the city’s vibrant street food culture. These eateries are more than just places to eat; they are community hubs where locals enjoy authentic Cantonese dishes in a lively atmosphere. Characterized by communal seating and traditional plastic stools, diners sit closely together, sharing meals and laughter, which reflects the essence of Hong Kong life. Inspired by this, I wanted to reinvent the stool with a sleek, elevated design.
An ideation phase is essential in my design process to quickly explore creative solutions and delve into references, materials, colors, and experiences. Once the idea was refined, I gathered the elements to create a functional prototype for the exhibition. Using a giant metal flower pot, a bamboo cutting board, wooden legs, and a touch of pyrography, I crafted my interpretation of the iconic Hong Kong seat.
DAI PAI DONG STOOL
Blending the nostalgic charm of Hong Kong's iconic street food stools with sleek lines; this seat captures the spirit of the iconic Dai Pai Dong. From casual cafes to outdoor dining spaces, it infuses any setting with a taste of the city's vibrant culinary heritage.
