Peterboro Patio
The Peterboro is an American-Chinese restaurant that sought to activate their unused patio space. Using themes present in the existing interior bar and dining room, I developed a schematic concept that drew inspiration from Chinese culture and gardens. A palette of materials similar to the restaurant was used to give continuity between the interior and exterior.
The composition balances the yang elements of architecture and concrete with the yin elements of plants and natural wood. A red door, representing power and luck, distinguishes the entry to the restaurant from the other service doors. As guests enter the patio they pass through a circular moon gate, symbolic of a rising new moon and a portal between worlds. The moon gate is reflected by the form of a round table, typical of traditional Chinese banquets. It can be used for large parties, or as communal seating, encouraging interactions between guests. The porous organic wood fence completes the enclosure of the patio and screens views of utility equipment.
