top of page

Interior Fit Out Contractor Bangkok

SOT4-3_edited.jpg

Onggi

Empire Tower, Sathorn

Simple, minimalist style, clean lines, natural timbers, stone and stainless steel showcasing Korean culture and food.

novotel - logo.jpg

Context

“Breathing pottery” 


As it is described Onggi are traditional Korean earthenware vessels made from the collection of mountain soil and plant materials that has flown down rivers and through rain surface runoff throughout thousands of years. 


Initially created for storage purposes its unique porous structure and natural quality has created a perfect vessel for fermentation. 


Onggi gave rise to the flourishing of Korea’s unique fermented food culture. The restaurant showcases Korean Fermented foods. 


The design has been established upon the principles of purity and simplicity, reflecting the ethos of the fermented food culture and approach. Natural Materials of timber and ceramics have been utilised throughout providing natural tactile experiences. Simple straight lines, clean edges and minimalist backdrop for the show case of the food. 


The floor to ceiling heights were extremely challenging in this project, the maximization of the natural light through the glazed facade facilitates maximum natural light ingress. A full fit out of the kitchen area was part of the fit out scope.

concept mentawai
novotel - logo.jpg
novotel - logo.jpg

300

sqm

floor area

4

months

time on site

Interior Design, MEP Design, and Fit Out

Hospitality/F&B

12

months

warranty

Mentawai massing

Design Approach and Scope

Onggi is built on a simple premise: a dining space should be as honest and nourishing as the food it serves. 


This philosophy guided our approach: 

  • Natural materiality — warm timber, soft whites, and refined textures 

  • Cultural subtlety — onggi vessels and artisanal elements inform character without replication or theme 

  • Visual openness — expanding the perception of a low-ceiling site through lighting and framed skyline views 

  • Functional clarity — comfortable circulation and calm dining rhythm supported by efficient back-of-house integration 

The design is intentionally quiet — a neutral foreground that lets the cuisine and experience take centre stage.

novotel - logo.jpg
novotel - logo.jpg

Situated within Empire Tower in Bangkok’s central business district, Onggi introduces a distinctly modern interpretation of fermented Korean culinary culture to an international audience. 


Fermentation — once a humble, domestic craft — is re-presented here as a contemporary act of wellbeing. 


The traditional onggi vessels, historically used for storing and ageing, become both functional inspiration and visual anchor. 


Their presence in the space bridges heritage and modern urban life, reminding guests that nourishment is both ancient and evolving. 


Onggi’s architecture supports this narrative: a place above the city, grounded in craft, connected to health, and designed for curiosity.

novotel - logo.jpg

Scope

Full End-to-End Design & Delivery 

  • Interior architecture and spatial planning 

  • MEP engineering design and coordination 

  • Custom furniture design and fabrication 

  • Full fit-out construction and project execution 

  • Building management liaison and operational approvals 

  • Brand-aligned material and lighting specification 

  • Procurement, installation, and commissioning to opening Delivered as an integrated Design + Build package, ensuring speed, cost clarity, and seamless alignment between creative intent and built outcome.

bottom of page