Mojojojo Restaurant by EMPT Studio
Malaysian interior architecture studio EMPT Studio has designed a dual-wing restaurant in Georgetown, Penang that bridges the gap between a hotel's private dining space and the city's vibrant street life.
Mojojojo Restaurant occupies a strategic location within a newly opened hotel in Georgetown's heritage district, where it navigates the delicate balance between exclusivity and accessibility. The architectural intervention divides the space into two distinct yet harmonious wings – one dedicated to hotel guests, offering an intimate dining sanctuary, while the other embraces the urban energy of Georgetown's bustling streetscape.
"The spatial arrangement was driven by our desire to create a democratic dining experience that caters to both hotel guests and the public," explains the studio. "This duality is reflected in the restaurant's fluid layout, which maintains a sense of sophistication while remaining approachable."
Vertical expansion defines the spatial strategy, where a mezzanine level floats above the kitchen operations. This architectural gesture maximizes the building's volume while preserving the essential quality of openness that characterizes the double-height interior. The elevated platform not only increases the venue's capacity but also creates a hierarchical layering of spaces that adds depth to the dining experience.
Material authenticity drives the design narrative, with locally sourced plywood and solid Nyatoh timber forming the primary palette. These elements are meticulously detailed and joined, expressing a commitment to regional craft traditions while establishing a contemporary architectural language. The natural materials create a tactile framework that grounds the space in its cultural context.
The lighting scheme employs a minimalist approach, with diffused sources carefully positioned to create an atmospheric dining environment. This controlled illumination highlights the inherent qualities of the wooden surfaces while establishing intimate dining zones within the larger volume. The result is a sophisticated interplay of light and shadow that enhances the restaurant's temporal qualities throughout the day.
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