We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Tim Jen about their original and creative Restaurant design work. Tim Jen is an award-winning architectural designer, that makes our world a better place with their original restaurant works.
Tim Jen ("TJ") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
TJ : The design is inspired by local cultural narratives and materials, aiming to build a spatial experience that resonates with the neighborhood and its people. Our principle is to respect and reinterpret context.
TJ : Our focus was to create a space that blends functionality with emotional memory. We wanted to build not just a restaurant, but a cultural hub that evokes a sense of place.
TJ : We plan to further evolve this spatial language in other cultural and commercial contexts. It may become a case study or model for future community-focused projects.
TJ : From initial concept to detailed design, it took approximately 4 to 5 months.
TJ : It was a commissioned project, but we were given creative freedom. The concept arose from both client dialogue and our own site-driven inspiration.
TJ : The space is currently in operation by our client. We retain the design rights and are open to future collaborations or adaptations.
TJ : We have a deep interest in public life and urban texture. Designing social spaces like this aligns with our vision to shape meaningful urban experiences.
TJ : Yes, we were inspired by architect Tadao Ando and artist Piet Mondrian. Ando’s use of light, concrete, and calm spatial composition influenced our approach to atmosphere and materials. Mondrian’s bold use of primary colors and geometric balance inspired how we applied color to shape visual rhythm in the space.
TJ : Urban dwellers seeking a deeper, more authentic local dining experience, as well as visitors interested in cultural atmospheres.
TJ : Its uniqueness lies in the poetic integration of cultural narrative, material tactility, and spatial rhythm to foster a sense of belonging.
TJ : The name “Izakaya 9am 5pm” conveys our idea of extending the izakaya experience from night into daytime. We wanted guests to enjoy the relaxed and social spirit of an izakaya even in the morning or afternoon, and to experience the transformation of atmosphere across the day.
TJ : We used Auto CAD, 3Ds MAX and Adobe Suite for 3D modeling and presentations, alongside physical model-making for tactile decision-making.
TJ : Its emotional tactility—a spatial experience that’s both grounded in local memory and yet subtly surreal.
TJ : Yes, we collaborated with local craftsmen, lighting specialists, and kitchen consultants to ensure cultural accuracy and functionality.
TJ : Technology helped us simulate lighting atmospheres and optimize space efficiency. Yet, the focus remained on tactile, human-scaled experience.
TJ : Yes, we studied user behavior patterns, site history, and neighborhood foot traffic to inform the layout and flow.
TJ : Balancing heritage elements with contemporary aesthetics, and coordinating with multiple specialists to ensure detail integrity.
TJ : We believed the project had a story worth sharing on a global stage and hoped it would open dialogue on culturally responsive design.
TJ : We refined our ability to translate intangible cultural elements into tangible spatial expressions, and improved communication with craftspeople.
TJ : We hope this project encourages designers to look inward—to their own cultural roots—as a source of innovation and identity.
