The French Concession district of Shanghai, known for its remarkable architectural lineage, has witnessed yet another design marvel - the highly-anticipated EHB restaurant by Esben Holmboe Bang.

Nestled amidst consulates and grand residences, this venue embodies a seamless blend of Norway’s delicate elegance and China’s rich history. Here's how Chris Shao Studio has immortalized the merger of two contrasting worlds.

Historic Footprints: The Villa's Venerable Past

Situated at No.11 Dongping Road, the villa housing EHB boasts a lineage connected to renowned Chinese dignitaries of the early 20th century. The likes of V.T. Soong and Soong Mei-Ling have graced the premises with their presence, adding layers of significance to this establishment.

The genius behind EHB's culinary experience is the celebrated Chef Esben. Not only did he clinch Michelin's highest honour at just 34 years of age, but he was also celebrated as one of Time Magazine's '100 Most Influential Chefs' in 2013. Hailing from Copenhagen and having sculpted his craft in Oslo, Chef Esben brings forth flavours inspired by Norway's pristine wilderness.

Main Attractions: A Journey Through EHB

First Floor: A Norwegian Reception

As you step into EHB, you're instantly enveloped by a world inspired by organic forms and vibrant botanicals reminiscent of Chef Esben's philosophy. With a design that echoes the essence of 'farm to table', you can almost visualize the handpicked ingredients from Oslo's lush forests.

The Tearoom: East Meets West

The Tearoom is an ode to a harmonious blend. Chinoiserie wallcoverings meet classic Western design, underlined by intricate details usually hidden in Asian architecture. Yet here, they gleam in bronze, creating a space where the past converses with the present.

The light and neutral palette allows the food and flavour to shine. Chinoiserie-style wallcoverings paired with mortise-and-tenon details derived from Chinese tradition pay homage to the existing architecture and the local vernacular. Classic Western panelling and flooring showcase details that mimic the mortise-and-tenon joint found within Asian architecture, complementing the modern furnishings of Scandinavia.

Second Floor: VIP Dining with Nordic Notes

Venture upstairs, and you’re welcomed into a world crafted in homage to Chef Esben's culinary roots. Whilst maintaining the integrity of the original architecture of the villa, a more minimal and modern approach has been taken towards the design of the second-floor dining room. The dining room showcases rich, dark materials, exuding a minimalist yet opulent ambiance.

Every detail, from the chairs to the tableware and textured glass panes that allow natural light to filter into the private dining room while maintaining privacy, has been considered to present an elevated dining experience to match the calibre of the culinary vision.

Third Floor: The Living Lounge Experience

The apex of EHB's architectural marvel lies on the third floor. Guests are treated to a cozy 'living room' experience by Chef Esben himself. The space retains its original charm with exposed beams and trusses, juxtaposed perfectly with Scandinavian influences.

Dominated by an authentic fireplace, this floor is also home to a centrally located wine-tasting room. With its strategic positioning, diners can indulge in intimate gatherings while the wine, encased in glass walls, emerges as a central design element. The entrance, mirroring the grandeur of a Nordic Fjord, only adds to the allure.

Under the vision of the talented team at Chris Shao Studio, EHB Restaurant presents an elevated dining experience that celebrates modern culinary prowess and historic architecture. It's where Norway's tranquillity meets China's grandiosity, offering diners flavours for their palate and a feast for their eyes. An experience here isn't just about dining; it's about travelling through time and cultures, plate by plate.

PROJECT DETAILS

Project Team: Chris Shao Studio | Instagram

Location: Shanghai, China

Photography: Zhu Hai