The China House by Chef Fei, thoughtfully crafted by Steve Leung Hospitality (SLH) at the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, embodies a dialogue between Chinese Chaoshan and Thai aesthetics. Inspired by Chinese family reunion traditions, spanning 1,100 square metres, its two-level design weaves emotional narratives into spaces like an atrium bar, tea lounge, dining area, and private rooms. Here, guests can enjoy an exquisite, multi-generational experience with cuisine by Michelin-starred Chef Fei.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by an elegantly composed bar and lounge area. As the eye travels upward, a dramatic double-height atrium opens the space. Subtle accents of deep green enliven the palette, striking a balance between openness and intimacy. Suspended from the second floor, a cascading red beaded curtain inspired by the traditional Chinese abacus, infuses the space with a distinctive Oriental character, allowing contemporary Chinese aesthetics to unfold naturally within the interior.
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- Photo credit: Steve Leung Hospitality
Beneath the soaring ceiling, a tranquil tea bar stands as a quiet focal point. Deep wine red tones intersect with refined stone green, setting a contemplative visual rhythm that echoes the calm, meditative spirit of traditional tea culture. The adjoining bar continues this elegant narrative, subtly extending the ritualistic grace of tea into a modern hospitality setting.
SLH collaborates with Thai artists to merge with cultural stories. A centrepiece is the “Phoenix Crown” pendant lights by Thai studio Pin Metal Art, a stunning focal point conveying the message “passing joy on”. Throughout the space, materiality reflects a spirit of cross-cultural collaboration. Walls are adorned with textiles from renowned Thai brand Jim Thompson, complemented by custom lighting by Bellitas and bespoke furniture by Task. Together, these elements celebrate Thai craftsmanship while aligning harmoniously with the restaurant’s refined aesthetic. Overall, the design exemplifies SLD’s vision of contemporary luxury through materiality, modern craftsmanship, and the interplay of light and shadow.
“We want to create a contemporary nostalgia venue. It’s not about recreating the past, but rather curating its essence and re-presenting it through a modern lens,” said a spokesperson. “The goal is to make current customers feel a warm, familiar recognition while making the newcomers see that heritage as compelling, sophisticated and relevant.”
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