Church-Inspired Asian Smokehouses
Michael Hsu Office of Architecture Designs Loro Heights
Loro Heights is an Asian smokehouse and bar, led by James Beard Award winners Chef Tyson Cole of Uchi and Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue. Aside from the juicy culinary options that produce a mouth-watering effect in consumers, the lively Asian smokehouse is also known for its striking architectural presence. The newly opened restaurant, which is located in Houston's Heights neighborhood, is located in an old red-brick church that dates back to 1948. The overhaul of this space was done by US firm Michael Hsu Office of Architecture. The designers focused on preserving much of the church's architectural character while converting the space into a functional Asian smokehouse with an "active and casual atmosphere." Unique features include the gabled roofs and the exposed wooden trusses.
Trend Themes
1. Adaptive Reuse - The conversion of historical buildings presents opportunities for adaptive reuse in the restaurant industry.
2. Culinary Collaboration - Collaborating with renowned chefs can enhance the culinary offerings of new restaurant concepts.
3. Architectural Branding - The unique architectural features of a building can serve as a brand identity for a restaurant.
Industry Implications
1. Restaurant - The restaurant industry can benefit from adaptive reuse of historical buildings and collaboration with chefs.
2. Architecture - Architecture firms can explore opportunities in adaptive reuse and branding for restaurants.
3. Hospitality - Hospitality businesses can leverage unique architecture and culinary collaborations to create differentiated dining experiences.