Project Data:

Completion Date:     8/5/2024

Square Footage:      16126

Building Use:           Commercial

Project Description:

Din Tai Fung's latest establishment in Santa Monica has taken over the space formerly occupied by the shopping mall's food court. The project faced several hurdles, including disjointed interior spaces and two distinct patio areas with varying elevations. These spaces were further complicated by a pedestrian pathway between the patios and the organic curvature of the areas, each with different radii. Moreover, the outdoor sections comprised over half of the total dining space and necessitated the incorporation of canopies for year-round use, regardless of weather conditions. A quick glance at the site plan underscores the intricate considerations that had to be addressed.
Turning our focus indoors, we were resolute in infusing an air of refinement and sophistication into the materials and spatial characteristics. The unique layout of the space demanded a clear differentiation: one side evolved into a narrow, curvilinear expanse, while the opposite manifested as a trapezoidal area, crowned by a lofty glass-roofed structure that spanned much of its dimensions. The project also entailed the incorporation of Din Tai Fung's iconic glass-enclosed dumpling display kitchen, a central bar that became the centerpiece of the supplementary dining area, and naturally, the task of accommodating ample seating.
Our solution entailed designing the primary dining area with the showcase kitchen as its backdrop. The ceiling featured an arrangement of suspended wood-veneered cylinders, strategically spaced in a seemingly random manner, creating a textured, horizontal surface while subtly referencing the dumpling steamer baskets that are integral to the restaurant's culinary presentation. Sunlight filtered through the skylight above this arrangement of unique cylinders, infusing the space with a warm, soft glow. The collection of circular wood and leather banquettes carried this motif further, their design inspired by the intricate construction of the basket's delicate skin. As for the secondary dining area, the focal point was a curvilinear travertine bar with a rounded edge. An off-kilter, wood-like structure (composed of acoustical felt panels) followed the curvature of the space, serving as a visual anchor and imbuing the dining room with an inviting, intimate ambiance. This ceiling structure, subtly influenced by Asian aesthetics, culminated in a void at its apex, housing various luminous forms resembling jellyfish or ethereal paper bags, seemingly ascending with buoyant, liquid light.
The exterior aspect of the project not only encompassed a significant portion of the endeavor but also demanded a meticulous structural analysis to bring it to fruition. Canopy structures assumed a dominant role, connecting the upper patio with its ocean vistas to the lower area adjacent to the entrance. A curving wooden screen facade demarcated the transition to the interior. Employing steel structural frames, the vaulted, translucent roof panels were designed to slide atop each other, fostering a dynamic interplay of "solid and void." Up front, cascading circular canopies formed a sculptural entrance element while providing shelter for waiting patrons.

Framework for Design Excellence

Din Tai Fung's creative design came about from a client wanting to design change to their upcoming restaurant. Creating spaces that are functional as well as pleasing to the eye was our main goal. We achieved this by adding warmth and playful details throughout. Discovery of how to create an outdoor covered patio that feels like part of the restaurant as well as its own special space was a challenge but was achieved with playful circular elements that tie back into the main dining space.

Firm Name:              Tag Front

Completion Date:     8/5/2024

Square Footage:      16126

Building Use:           Commercial

Location:                 Santa Monica, California

Design Architect:
Tag Front Architects

Associate Architect or Firm:

Landscape Architect:

Owner / Developer:
Din Tai Fung

Engineer:
Structural Engineer: Englekirk Structural Engineers
MEP Engineer: Schnackel Engineers,INC.
Kitchen Designer: Trimark

General Contractor:

Consultant:

Photographer: