A peach tree stands in the centre of the courtyard, with the gloomy day’s last rays of blue-grey light settling over the ornamental roofs. Vivid murals depicting scenes of yore decorate the walls, interspersed by geometric patterns inspired by Chinese screens.
But contrary to what it sounds like, this isn’t a Chinese palace, it’s actually Oversea Restaurant‘s latest restaurant in Menara Lien Hoe by the name of Oversea Palace Seafood.
We found ourselves in the restaurant pre-launch to enjoy an early Chinese New Year meal, but beyond it being a treat for our palates, it was also a treat on the eyes.
Ornate and oriental
Built in a way that is reminiscent of a Chinese siheyuan with a luxurious palatial touch, Oversea Palace Seafood certainly lives up to its name.
The siheyuan composition was a common pattern used by Chinese residences, palaces, temples, government offices, and other sorts of buildings. It comprises a courtyard, surrounded by buildings on all four sides.
This design is referenced in the main dining hall of this restaurant, where the four surrounding “buildings” are acknowledged through the overhanging Chinese-styled roofs.
The “courtyard” is indicated by the peach tree which is covered by a translucent roofing mimicking the sky, which diffuses the natural light streaming through from outside.
The peach tree actually has quite the significance here. For one, the fruit has been cultivated in China for thousands of years, with genetic studies suggesting that peaches originated there.
Moreover, peaches are an auspicious fruit, symbolising immortality and longevity in China.
Outside, there are long hallways lined with sliding doors with traditional Chinese geometric patterns.
Coffered dark brown ceilings paired with grey hexagonal tiles—with some white ones with Chinoiserie patterns sprinkled throughout—for flooring further add detail and dimension for that luxurious, ornate tone.
Connecting to the cuisine
The courtyard dining hall aside, this restaurant comprises numerous private dining rooms (17, in fact), perfect for more intimate family or company meals.
Peeking into these rooms, we noticed that many of them also feature artistic murals, serving as beautiful backdrops for group photos. There’s no doubt that come the Chinese New Year season, many will be taking lovely pictures in this restaurant.
There’s also an aquarium area that will be populated with seafood once the restaurant officially launches.
Offering modern sensibilities while taking cues from traditional inspirations, Oversea Palace Seafood cleverly plays off and also into the cuisine that it serves.
It goes to show that great commercial design doesn’t just exist in a vacuum—it exists to help guests and customers feel more connected to the brand and the story they aim to weave.
Learn more about Oversea Restaurant here.
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