We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Jackson Y. K. Chia about their original and creative Restaurant design work. Jackson Y. K. Chia is an award-winning architectural designer, that makes our world a better place with their original restaurant works.
Jackson Y. K. Chia ("JYKC") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Blue Tandoor Restaurant. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
JYKC : To celebrate the richness of Indian cuisine through a modern lens — blending deep, vibrant hues like royal blue and brass with soft curves and natural textures. Our principle was to create a space that feels both bold and welcoming, where tradition meets contemporary elegance.
JYKC : Our main focus was to craft a dining experience that immerses guests in the soul of Indian hospitality — warm, expressive, and memorable. We wanted to achieve a balance between cultural storytelling and a refined modern ambiance that enhances both comfort and curiosity.
JYKC : We hope to build on this award-winning design by expanding its concept into future outlets or franchise opportunities, while continuing to refine and adapt the aesthetic to different locations. The goal is to establish Blue Tandoor as a design-forward dining brand that’s instantly recognizable yet locally relevant
JYKC : The concept development took approximately 2 to 3 months, including research, mood boarding, and refining the design narrative to align with the brand’s vision. From there, we moved into detailing and execution planning
JYKC : This design was commissioned, but it was also a collaborative journey. The client had a clear vision for a modern Indian dining experience, and we were inspired to translate that into a space that tells a story — rich in color, culture, and character. It was about bringing their dream to life while elevating it with our own creative perspective.
JYKC : The design is currently exclusive to Blue Tandoor Restaurant & Grill, with no plans to sell or lease the rights. However, as the brand grows, we are open to scaling the design across future branches while maintaining design integrity and originality.
JYKC : We were drawn to this project because it allowed us to blend culture, storytelling, and modern design. Designing a space for Indian cuisine gave us a rich palette of inspiration — from colors and materials to spatial rhythm — and the opportunity to create something truly immersive and meaningful
JYKC : While the core concept was original to our team, we drew subtle inspiration from traditional Indian architecture and contemporary hospitality design. We also studied the work of leading designers in restaurant interiors globally — not to replicate, but to understand how atmosphere and identity can be powerfully shaped through detail and materiality.
JYKC : The target customer is the modern diner who appreciates both authentic Indian cuisine and a thoughtfully designed environment — someone seeking not just a meal, but a full sensory experience that blends tradition with contemporary style.
JYKC : Its ability to honor the rich cultural heritage of Indian cuisine while presenting it through a fresh, modern lens. We combined bold color palettes, curved architectural forms, and handcrafted details to create a space that feels both authentic and unexpectedly refined — not just themed, but truly curated
JYKC : It is the official brand name itself.
JYKC : We used a combination of design tools throughout the project, including SketchUp for 3D modeling and visualization, Lumion for rendering, and Autocad for presentation and detailing. These tools helped us communicate the concept clearly and bring the design to life with precision.
JYKC : The most unique aspect of our design is how it merges the warmth and authenticity of Indian culture with a modern architectural language. From the signature curved forms to the deep blue tones and brass accents, every detail was crafted to create a distinctive, immersive dining atmosphere that feels both elevated and culturally grounded.
JYKC : We worked closely with architect, kitchen planners, and skilled craftsmen to ensure that every technical detail aligned with the aesthetic vision. Their specialized expertise was essential in bringing the concept to life with both functionality and finesse.
JYKC : Technology supported the design process primarily through visualization and precision. We used 3D modeling, rendering, and digital drafting tools to develop and refine the concept, ensuring design accuracy and clear communication with the client and contractors. It allowed us to preview the atmosphere and make informed decisions before construction began.
JYKC : Yes, the design was guided by a mix of cultural research, spatial analysis, and customer behavior insights. We studied traditional Indian dining elements, material symbolism, and color psychology, alongside research on flow, seating comfort, and ambiance preferences in modern restaurants. This helped us create a space that’s not only visually compelling but also functionally thoughtful
JYKC : One of the main challenges was striking the right balance between tradition and modernity — ensuring the space felt authentic without becoming overly themed. We also had to work within spatial and budget constraints, which required smart material choices and creative spatial planning to maintain the intended ambiance without compromise
JYKC : We decided to submit the design to an international competition because we believed Blue Tandoor represented a strong blend of cultural storytelling and contemporary design — something that could resonate on a global stage. It was also an opportunity to showcase the talent and creativity from our region to a wider audience
JYKC : Throughout the design process, we deepened our understanding of how to translate cultural identity into a modern spatial experience. It challenged us to be more intentional with materials, form, and emotion — and reinforced the importance of storytelling in design. It was a valuable growth experience in both creative expression and client collaboration.
JYKC : We’d just like to add that this project was more than just a design — it was a narrative brought to life through collaboration, intention, and a shared vision with our client. We're proud that Blue Tandoor not only offers a unique dining experience but also reflects how thoughtful design can celebrate culture in a contemporary world.
