A brand-new, Chocolate Factorybranch has quietly opened its doors in Hua Hin, Thailand and it is pleasantly surprising. I am a huge chocolate lover and have always wondered what it would be like to be in a chocolatier’s workshop and their restaurants. I personally find it a magnificent idea to dedicate an entire restaurant to the craft of chocolate making with the pleasure of indulging in one of life’s finest delights. There are not enough places as such in the world if you ask me, but Thailand’s Chocolate Factoryis a worthy addition which will most certainly inspire us all.
Design team, party/space/design, also known as p/s/d, were intrigued by the history of Hua Hin and some of its iconic architectural elements, such as the Klai Kangwon Palace, the Hua Hin train station and the Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, so their approach towards the new design was influenced by Colonial architecture by the sea; an architectural style that has been introduced into old settlements or colonies that were specifically based on coastal areas, in this case, to that of Thailand’s beach fronts. This architectural characteristic is carried through the large building and has been modernised in a contemporary method, using a combination of raw and refined materials.
It was important for the restaurant to feel open, with all the different processes taking place at the same time, so the designers allowed for a high number of spaced out seating spots, with bold tones and textures, to correspond with the more subtle and matte finishes of the space.
A backdrop of creamy whites, stands well against the highly reflective, bronze lamps and pipes that decorate the ceilings, and the contrasting, vibrant blue sofas that bring colour to the general muted hues. Patterned marble is used on the plotted counters, dessert displays, main bar station and even the columns in the small boutique, adding an elegance to the overall design and the art behind the delicious desserts.
Party/space/design, chose meaningful features to represent the Chocolate Factory and to allow the design scheme to tell a story to its guests. The pendant lights were carefully chosen to resemble a selection of chocolates sold by the company, with beautifully round forms and peaks, in that rich, glazed smoothness that chocolate offers.
Besides this, p/s/d also wanted to enhance the historical influences of the building’s new design, by showcasing graphical components on the walls of the incorporated store.
Bringing it all together, the subtle use of timber on the floors, chairs, beams, shelfs and even partial wall panelling, works harmoniously with the more striking characteristics in the scene. Sky high windows that match the high ceilings, provide openness, natural lighting and a busy view of the beach. This open view also allows for a distinct relation between the exterior and the interior, which is recognised through the disorganised vegetation that adds a naturally fresh environment to the restaurant.
A tasteful design for all you chocolate lovers out there.
Photos © Retail Design
Photography courtesy of F Sections
