d+a | Issue 116 • Jun/July 2020

81 What type of timbre is used on the walls and floor throughout the restaurant? Rustic timbre is used extensively on the walls and floors throughout the space. Drawing on Singaporean shophouse architecture, we looked to modernise and innovate this through the use of timbre slats and classic Mott 32 bank bar gold gates. The timbre pairs harmoniously with the greenery and earthy-toned furnishings to fulfil the natural, Garden City aesthetic. We have mainly used oak throughout the restaurant but stained it in different ways to highlight its grain in certain areas, while hiding it in others. This made for a unifying language throughout the space, while simultaneously imbuing feature dining rooms with their own personality. Rope is used abundantly, especially on the ceiling of the main dining area. What is the significance of it? Mott 32 is a restaurant that boasts a Hong Kong story. Even so, we have opened outposts across cities internationally. We want to celebrate the fact that it originated in the dynamic city of Hong Kong, whereby the cuisine and design alike have been honed to satiate the tastes of a discerning crowd. Hong Kong’s humble beginnings was one of a fishing village and with the rustic rope detailing, we transport diners back to this period of trade and exchange. The rope canopy in the main dining area harks back to dockside activity – creating an authentic tension between Hong Kong’s past and present. What influenced your decision on where to place the artwork of our national animal, the lion? At Mott 32 Singapore, the lion is positioned outside the men’s lavatory. We wanted to locate the graffiti (created by graffiti artist Joe-joe) in an area that is not first noticeable on entry and can only be appreciated in a more private setting by diners – perhaps even only on their second visit. Hence, we felt the journey towards the restrooms provided a more subtle opportunity for the artwork to be discovered. 4. Mott 32’s bar front is clad in ancient Chinese feather- embossed tiles, while the bar back has apothecary drawers that add an air of mystery. 4 JOYCE WANG, PRINCIPAL, JOYCE WANG STUDIO