ORTENSIA RESTAURANT BY CHRIS SHAO STUDIO

Images courtesy of Chris Shao Studio

French–Japanese mixed Parisian Restaurant

A Japanese chef and a Chinese pastry chef dared to do French-Japanese cuisine (in Paris and now China). Opening a second to their Michelin-recognized Parisian restaurant in Shanghai.

Chris Shao Studio

Presented by Coulisse | INK

Ortensia blends Parisian sentiment, Japanese sophistication, and a unique Shanghai charm on the foundational elements of the hydrangea (“Hortensia”) and the distinctive traits of Shikumen architecture. On the second floor, these retro characteristics are retained while the French panel design echoes the language of the building. The traditional and contemporary are presented in harmony with an emphasis on luxury.

Hydrangeas among the greenery are the first thing you see, nestled on the small Shikumen patio. The flower reverberates throughout the space; the entrance desk is a skeleton bud, ornate metal flowers embellish the panels, and open petals are grown on a nearby wall. The central flower installation, in a curved form combining the feminine and masculine, is inspired by the hydrangea and becomes the visual focal point of the space.

The spacious VIP room’s gradient high-gloss paint, combined with fabric gradient light fixtures creates a shimmering effect, providing a visual hierarchy and making the overall space more dynamic and balanced. The light temperature is mellow throughout, trickling from overhead floral light installations, leaving shadows on the velvet walls.

A bronze etched mirror commissioned by Charlotte Kingsnorth hangs behind the card table, around its edge a hand treatment evokes the hydrangea and visually presents a rumination on the transition of space and time through intricate textures and reductions.

Splashed bright colors and intriguing textures among the palette shades of yellow, green, red, and brown. A visually nuanced and distinguished dining experience is rendered in delicate details and rich layers all synchronizing the natural beauty of the Hydrangea, Shanghai’s rich cultural charm without losing the understated elegance Japan does so well.

Project Information
Project Name: Ortensia
Project Location: Shanghai, Zhangyuan W14
Project type: Interior Design
Project status: Built
Principal designer: Chris Shao
Design team: Chris Shao Studio LLC
Design year:2024
Construction period: 4 Months
Interior floor area (m2):  500 Square Meters
Lighting consultant: Haiyan Zhu
Material: Venetian Plaster, Rustic Tile, Gradient Lacquer, hand-carved wood veneer
Furnishing brands: Custom Furniture
Photographer: Zhu Hai Studio