Izakaya 9am 5pm

Restaurant for squaremeter Design Studio

This project is located in Tainan, regarded as the most historically significant city in Taiwan. Therefore, the design concept aims to present various materials in their original forms to create spatial depth while showcasing the rustic charm of Tainan. The concrete bar counter serves as the core of the space, surrounded by copper plates and raw wood veneers that will change in appearance over time. This symbolizes the unique culture of Tainan, which has developed through historical transitions and evolution.

Download Press Kit № 162938

Download Press Kit № 162938 Restaurant for squaremeter Design Studio by squaremeter Design Studio to access high-res images, essential texts, translations, and exclusive interviews—all in one.

Available Now for Your Next Story

At architecture|newsroom, we understand the pressures and deadlines journalists face. That’s why we offer exclusive access to our curated press kits and high-resolution images, tailored for accredited journalists. These resources are designed to enrich your stories with depth and visual appeal, spotlighting the world's most innovative designs.

Please Note:

• Credit the work's creator and/or photographer.
• Mention architecture|newsroom as your source.
• Share your published pieces with us; we love to celebrate and promote your work on our platform and social media.

Let’s Collaborate: Your stories matter. architecture|newsroom is here to support you with quality, accessible content. Once you are accredited, reach out for the images and content you need. We will provide the specific images and content directly, along with recommendations on works to feature.

Get Accredited Easily: Quick access to our resources requires media accreditation. Apply for media accreditation to join our network and start exploring a wealth of design stories.

Izakaya 9am 5pm by squaremeter Design Studio

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

Restaurant by squaremeter Design Studio

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

squaremeter Design Studio Izakaya 9am 5pm

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

squaremeter Design Studio Restaurant

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

squaremeter Design Studio Design Team Photo

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

squaremeter Design StudioBrand Logo

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

squaremeter Design Studio Interview

Exclusive Content: We offer an interview with squaremeter Design Studio, approximately 771 words in length, for journalists to use at no cost. Access and download now. Access squaremeter Design Studio Interview Now.

Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant Press Releases

Discover our press releases for Izakaya 9am 5pm available in the following languages: English.

Unique Properties

A handcrafted concrete bar counter was designed as the core element of the entire space. After the concrete was poured, the owner was invited to participate in the chiseling process, deepening the connection between the owner, the customers, and the space itself. The bar is surrounded by untreated copper plates and raw walnut veneer, which will change in appearance over time. This symbolizes the unique culture of Tainan, shaped by historical changes and evolution.

Tags

Natural, Izakaya, squaremeter Design Studio, Taiwan, Tainan

Production Technology

The original building's green tiles on the exterior were retained and complemented with walnut veneer on the interior. The contrasting colors are accentuated with gold copper sheets. Additionally, the original gray marble flooring was preserved and paired with a newly constructed concrete bar counter, enhancing the overall stability and groundedness of the space. The design maintains the building's original features, striking a balance between historical elements and new materials, ensuring that the building stands out in the alleys of Tainan without appearing out of place.

Design Challenge

Integrating the design with the original building conditions was the biggest challenge, leading to several proposed solutions. The green tiles on the exterior of the building and the walnut veneer on the interior, along with contrasting colors and gold brass accents, create a harmonious overall space with a bright focal point. The original flooring and the gray color of the new concrete bar contribute to the calmness of the space. The wall of the staircase leading to the upper floor features a high-brightness blue color, transforming the space and reducing visual fatigue caused by the same color tone over a large area. The feature wall lamps and the hand-hewn bar also add liveliness to the space.

Project Duration

This project was completed in December 2023 in Tainan, Taiwan, and officially opened in January 2024.

Operation Flow

In terms of the flow of use, the space used by consumers and staff is separated, with the front area, where consumers are located, as the main focus of the design. In the back area, a large kitchen space has been planned to ensure that staff do not interfere with the consumers' route when delivering or receiving food. This arrangement allows consumers to enjoy a better dining experience.

Research

The site of this project is located in a city rich in historical and cultural background. Therefore, the goal is not only to create a unique design but also to develop a space that integrates local cultural characteristics. Materials that are raw and evolve over time, such as copper sheets, concrete, and natural wood veneer, have been chosen as part of the design solution. The integration of people, space, time, and place is the core of the design philosophy. Consequently, context-sensitive design has always been the primary consideration and goal.

Inspiration

This project is located in Tainan, one of Taiwan's most historically rich cities. Connecting the restaurant with Tainan's history was the primary design consideration. Therefore, various materials were presented in their original forms to create spatial layering while showcasing Tainan's local culture. By integrating the local culture of Tainan's ancient capital, the design preserves the building's rustic charm while infusing it with new vitality.

Image Credits

Photographer Weimax Studio, 2024.

Project Overview

Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant has been a Silver winner in the Interior Space and Exhibition Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Silver A' Design Award celebrates top-tier designs that embody excellence and innovation. This award acknowledges creations that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, reflecting the designer's deep understanding and skill. Silver A' Design Award recipients are recognized for their contribution to raising industry standards and advancing the practice of design. Their work often incorporates original innovations and elicits a strong emotional response, making a notable impact on the improvement of everyday life.

Silver Recognition

squaremeter Design Studio was recognized with the coveted Silver A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant.

squaremeter Design Studio Press Releases

Access a rich repository of press releases on squaremeter Design Studio, offered to press and media professionals for unrestricted use in their stories. Instantly access 1 press releases, available exclusively for journalists.

Izakaya 9am 5pm by squaremeter Design Studio Wins Silver A' Design Award for Blending Tainan Heritage with Modern Craft

squaremeter Design Studio's Izakaya 9am 5pm, located in Tainan, Taiwan, has been honored with the Silver A' Design Award 2025 for its innovative approach to integrating local history and culture into contemporary restaurant design, officially opening its doors in January 2024.

squaremeter Design Studio Newsroom

Unlock a treasure trove of award-winning designs by accessing squaremeter Design Studio Newsroom.