From noodles to desserts, Pang Mei Noodle Bar (“Pang Mei” translates to “chubby girl”) has mastered serving distinctive Sichuan dishes in Beijing. This is the third collaboration between Office AIO and the client. After implementing two distinctive schemes at two unique venues together, the client had chosen a new location in an art & cultural-focused neighbourhood. To cater to the larger floor area, the client is experimenting with a hybrid operation, varying service models and menus at different hours.

Office AIO devises a system of spatial programming that changes throughout the day.Interior space was strategically sectioned to facilitate different operational needs while engages and energises its surroundings. With the benefit of a wide facade, the design carves out a corridor along the façade, a linear zone for grab-and-go orders and double-sided window seats that takes advantage of the arterial walkway and exposure to the courtyard. Service windows of varying sizes protrude along the kitchen into the corridor, streamlining service for this bustling section. Towards its spacious eastern end, Office AIO arranges more tables and flexible seating, doubling seat counts for peak hours dine-ins. A roller shutter act as the key to the eatery's transformation. Shut off during off-peak hours for quick counter service; the shutter opens during peak hours, expanding the restaurant for full table service.

The team revamps the facade with long tables protruding beyond the building’s envelop, with seating on both sides that extends the social scenes onto the plaza. Coupled with a stainless "chubby" superstructure projecting out of the facade above the bi-fold windows, commanding a monumental yet playful presence inside the complex. Rolling canopies were integrated between the tubular and reflective structure blending functionality with unique brand identity.

The new terrazzo patios with soft corners reach out into the courtyard in a friendly manner. The stepping and the canopy together, accentuate the linearity of the façade, and frame the long and dynamic scenes of eaters enjoying their food and company.Multiple service stations are strategically placed between kitchen and dining areas, these partitions are adorned with padded cylinders in nude upholstery. They wiggle along the walls forming a backdrop that hints on Pang Mei's famous noodles while creating a sound-damping device for the bustling setting.

The playfulness of the design elements extends to the custom furniture and fittings with a strong sense of material-awareness. Inspired by the improvisation spirit of hutong furniture, Office AIO crafted with compositable rubber bands, cork, and aluminium, the bespoke Sling Chairs and Puck Pendants complement the rooms of flexibility, minimalism, and warmth.Tying together the spirit of pop art, community, and Sichuan cuisine, Office AIO crafts a space of minimalistic aesthetics,while manages to flex operations, impress community, and connect people.