Nestled within the fashionable former French Concession of Shanghai, Blaze is a modern French bistro housed within a 20th century old villa. The project aims to be a modern interpretation of traditional French bistros and old-fashioned French brasseries, rather than a deliberate imitation. We started by narrowing the space down to the villa’s original elements: windows, large brick arches, brick walls and wooden panels. We then positioned the brasserie vibe by lining the walls with mirrors and wine racks, installing a long bar seating and introducing large communal tables suitable for gatherings with friends. To bring a sense of authenticity to the space, we combined raw materials (exposed concrete floor, brick walls, iron beams) with more refined details such as the colorful veneer on the bar and birch wood paneling.
Blaze is a modern French bistro housed within a 20th century old villa, located in the fashionable former French Concession of Shanghai. The project aims to be a modern interpretation of traditional French bistros and old-fashioned French brasseries, rather than a deliberate imitation. The design team started by narrowing the space down to the villa’s original elements: windows, large brick arches, brick walls and wooden panels. They then positioned the brasserie vibe by lining the walls with mirrors and wine racks, installing a long bar seating and introducing large communal tables suitable for gatherings with friends. To bring a sense of authenticity to the space, they combined raw materials (exposed concrete floor, brick walls, iron beams) with more refined details such as the colorful veneer on the bar and birch wood paneling.
The focal point of the dining area is two large tables that can be used for large gatherings, with more seating on long banquettes lining the walls and lower seating at the bar. The team was happy to provide a variety of seating arrangements to accommodate any client’s needs and encourage interaction among guests. A striking fig tree was planted in the middle of the concrete floor, balancing the industrial design and bringing a natural, airy feel to the space.
Blaze offers guests an experience that feels like having dinner at a friend’s house while dining out. With its modern and stylish design, the restaurant has become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Project Information:
Project Name: Blaze French Restaurant
Project Type: Restaurant, French Restaurant
Project Location: 20 Dong Hu Road, Shanghai, China
Design Firm: Mirabeau Architecture
Lead Designer: Vladimir Mirabeau
Construction Team: INSPIRED Construction and design Co.,Ltd
Project Area: 190 square meters
Main Materials: Mirrors, wood, red brick, textured paint, glass, self-leveling
Photographer: Victor Marvillet
