Eater Inside

A Look Inside Bonchon's Minimalist Asian Design

by Missy Frederick@bylinemjf Jul 11, 2013, 6:30am EDT

The latest incarnation of Bonchon, home of the addictive Korean fried chicken, has been given a sleek design update from Grizform Design Architects. Designers Griz Dwight and Michelle Bove tackled the project so that it would have "Asian influences, but not be overtly Asian," he explained. That meant clean lines, a simple color palatte, curved details and a minimal amount of materials. Wood, stone, metal and a laquered eggshell were the main substances incorporated.

The ceiling reaches different levels throughout the place, giving sort of a dipping and jumping quality to the restaurant's walls. Screened doors, black shelving and detailed cabinetry add to the look. A back bar is a major focal point. The team took existing furniture and adapted it to give it a more customized look, using mango wood as an accent. "It's a fairly open space, with some great little nooks that feel comfortable and private," said Bove. Since the restaurant is located in a new building at 2209 N. Pershing Drive, Suite E, that means the designers had to be responsible for giving the space its character. Bonchon has some friends and family events coming up, but plans its soft opening for Monday, July 15.