Xia is a casual restaurant located in Hong Kong’s Palace Museum. The owner’s requirement is the design must reflect Chinese culture and history. The design wants to address the casual aspect of imperial life, and translates the history of the Emperor Qian Lung’s voyage to visit Southern China.

With requirements for a 80 seats restaurants, retail area, and an open drinks counter, the design gives contemporary interpretation to the moon gates and Chinese roof structure, as features flanking a blue ceiling, reference to the sky, above the long narrow space. The dining area is laid out in a linear arrangement flanked by retail areas at two ends. A large “moon” hovers above as a projection screen for special events, and separates a private dining area behind. The consistency of the design is through a grid system that devices from the window mullion, and the application of one wood for the wall finishes and furniture throughout.