Nestled in the picturesque city of Dali, China, the Momrestaurant Jim Restaurant, a project by A Mulong Design Studio, is a celebration of simplicity, authenticity, and connection. The restaurant’s design draws inspiration from the artist Zhao Lei’s second album, which shares the same name. The album’s namesake, “Jim Restaurant,” is a humble Muslim eatery where Zhao Lei often sought comfort and familiar flavors. The word “Jim” translates to “mother” in the Hui language, representing the warmth and nourishment of home.
The restaurant’s architecture echoes this theme of authenticity. A towering tree, a symbol of growth and life, stands prominently on the site, and the designers chose to preserve it. The earthy, rammed-earth walls, reminiscent of the ground from which they emerge, encircle the courtyard, creating a cozy and intimate gathering space. The low-slung entrance, accessible only by bowing one’s head, signifies humility and respect. 
The design embraces the natural environment, encouraging visitors to shed their burdens and reconnect with the earth. The courtyard’s low, squat stools offer a casual, almost primal dining experience. This “non-formal” posture promotes relaxation and fosters closer connections between diners. The low vantage point allows diners to experience the world from a different perspective, unveiling details often overlooked.
The flexible stage area allows for diverse configurations, welcoming guests to sit or stand, creating a natural flow between the audience and the music. The staircase leading from the first floor to the second floor is ingeniously integrated into the outdoor space, extending beyond the interior boundaries. This design decision not only optimizes space utilization but also visually reduces the staircase’s weight through the use of translucent polycarbonate panels, creating an airy and transparent aesthetic that draws attention to the stage. The sculptural form of the staircase seamlessly blends into the space, enhancing the flow of movement and blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. The courtyard and interior spaces are intertwined, creating a harmonious and interconnected experience.
Project Information:
Architects: A Mulong Design Studio
Location: Dali, China
Type: Restaurant, Pub, Small Music Venue
Materials: Rammed Earth, Wood, Steel
