Mountain-Sea Chronicles: Immersive Dining by FUNUN LAB

Nestled in Yantai, Shandong, the Mountain-Sea Chronicles project is a fascinating exploration of how nature and dining can merge into an immersive experience. This space invites visitors to enjoy not only a meal but also an environment that stirs the imagination with its blend of Eastern aesthetics and modern design.

The Visionary Behind the Design

At the helm of this creative journey is FUNUN LAB, a design studio known for its fresh approach to commercial spaces. Led by Fan Jie and supported by a talented team including Li Hui, Han Bo, and Wang Nong, the studio has reimagined what a dining environment can be. Their work reflects a blend of traditional cultural influences and contemporary design, resulting in a space that feels both timeless and current. The team’s collaborative spirit shines through in every detail, ensuring that the project maintains a balanced dialogue between form and function.

Embracing Nature’s Palette

The concept behind Mountain-Sea Chronicles is rooted in the poetic imagery of mountains and seas. The design draws inspiration from the vastness of natural landscapes, transforming these elements into an urban dining space. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to fill the area, creating a seamless transition between the indoors and the outdoor environment. Curved planting walls and flowing textures are integrated to evoke the serene movement of water and the steady presence of mountains. The space is a testament to how nature’s beauty can be distilled into architectural language without overwhelming the senses.

A Journey Through Space

Visitors are invited to wander through a carefully curated environment where each area tells a part of the overall narrative. The open layout is segmented into various zones, allowing for both communal gatherings and private moments of quiet reflection. One striking feature is the open kitchen with its towering open-flame oven, which not only serves as a functional element but also as a visual landmark reminiscent of a mystical furnace hidden amidst nature’s bounty. This thoughtful arrangement creates a journey where guests can move from one sensory experience to another, each area offering a new perspective on the relationship between light, space, and nature.

Harmonizing Function and Form

While the design is undeniably artistic, the underlying focus remains on creating a functional space that enhances the dining experience. The arrangement of seating, the flow of movement, and even the strategic play of light and shadow have been carefully considered. Tiered seating and private corridors provide flexibility, catering to a range of dining scenarios—from intimate dinners to larger family gatherings. The design’s asymmetry and dynamic contrasts challenge conventional spatial norms, inviting diners to engage with their surroundings in a way that is both reflective and refreshing.