▲ Project Video
Art has gradually become an integral part of our daily lives—from paintings and lamps in private rooms to artworks and exhibitions displayed in public spaces.
This floating cloud installation is situated on the top floor of a standalone building in Sanlitun North District. Designed by SODA Architects for AKATOAO’s first store, it is a spatial art piece that brings the sky indoors. Clouds of varying sizes float above, following a flowing ceiling line and hovering just above visitors’ heads, making the distant sky feel within reach.
▲ Daytime Lighting Effect in the Interior Space
The milky white cloud layer is crafted from large kites made of Tyvek. First used in space applications by SODA, Tyvek has been repurposed here to create a soft, harmonious light effect that interacts gently with the surroundings. Its fibrous texture subtly appears and disappears under the shifting light, producing a unique visual experience.
The kite elements include a dynamic lighting system developed by SODA. The lighting can either spread from one corner of the cloud to fill the entire space or quietly emerge from the center and radiate outward. Different colors flow and shift over time, adapting to the atmosphere of the scene. Small kites with a childlike charm are scattered among the clouds, evoking nostalgic memories of childhood.
▲ Light and Shadow Effects in Various Colors
The design creates a semi-enclosed yet open space. Inside, visitors are immersed in an atmosphere filled with the playful interaction of clouds and kites. On the open terrace, guests can experience the real sky, sunsets, and nightfall with ever-changing light, making the outdoor environment a natural extension of the interior. This project by SODA aims to “capture a corner of the sky.”
▲ Interior Space with Cool Light Effects
This installation brings the indoor clouds into dialogue with the outdoor sky, drawing attention back to the tangible space around visitors. The environment’s atmosphere shifts subtly with flowing colors. As night falls, the cloud colors transition from warm to cool tones, creating a calm and relaxed bar ambiance.
At the center of the space, a boat-shaped reflective copper bar counter complements the cloud installation above. This design encourages guests to gather around, enjoy food and music, and relax in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
The spatial installation challenges traditional boundaries between environment and art. Rather than serving as mere decoration, art here acts as a medium that adapts to its surroundings, forging an intimate and elegant connection between modern individuals immersed in their digital devices and the natural world.
▲ Axonometric Diagram
▲ Axonometric Diagram
▲ Plan View
▲ Sectional View
Project Information
Project: AKATOAO Red and Green Restaurant
Designer: SODA Architects
Lead Designers: Jiang Yuan, Song Chen
Design Team: Chen Fei, Hao Zhiyuan, Wang Yuehua, Shi Mingchunjian, Wang Jiashuai, Liu Panpan, Qiang Zhiwen, Wang Shan, Zhang Zhen, Xiao Tianle
Location: Top floor, Sanlitun North District
Building Area: 300 m²
Design & Construction: June 2019
Construction: Beijing Aiwu Building Decoration Engineering Co., Ltd
Main Materials: Tyvek, programmable LED, metal, wood, glass
Photographer: Chen Xiyu
Website: www.soda.archi
Contact: __AI_S_SC0__
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