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The concept for the Big Red Crayfish project was born out of a desire to preserve the historical significance of the 300-year-old building while transforming it into a modern dining space. The idea grew from the vision of integrating the rich cultural heritage of Nanjing with the dynamic and vibrant experience of a crayfish-themed commercial space. The design emphasizes adaptive reuse, blending traditional Chinese architectural styles with modern materials and functionality, allowing the space to serve both as a historic site and a contemporary, bustling venue.
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The project’s design creates a seamless interaction with the surrounding landscape, situated along the Qinhuai River. The red steel staircase, acting as a "guardian dragon," connects the four courtyard buildings, creating a flowing, river-like path through the space. The design maximizes the site's geographical advantages, offering new perspectives of the nearby Dabaoen Temple. The fusion of traditional and modern elements ensures that the site feels integrated with both its historical context and the lively, modern cityscape of Nanjing.
Sustainability is a key principle in the project. The design reused local materials, such as repurposing removed doors as glass-sealed screens and Taihu stones for landscaping and functional barriers. This minimizes construction waste and environmental impact. The project also avoids direct attachment of new additions, such as the red staircase, to the original structures, preserving their integrity. While there is no mention of specific certifications or awards, the emphasis on sustainable materials and preservation reflects a strong commitment to eco-compatibility.
The Big Red Crayfish project is a unique blend of historical preservation and modern functionality. The design integrates traditional Chinese architectural elements, like pavilions and terraces, with modern materials such as steel, glass, and LED displays. A standout feature is the red steel staircase, designed to evoke the image of a "guardian dragon," which serves both as a practical connection between spaces and a striking visual landmark. The project is defined by its harmonious integration of history and modernity, with innovative reuse of materials, sustainable practices, and an emphasis on enriching the visitor experience. It also preserves the 300-year-old residence of Xie An while injecting contemporary energy and commercial value into the space. This balance between aesthetic beauty, cultural heritage, and functionality makes it a vibrant and successful project on the banks of the Qinhuai River.
The Big Red Crayfish project successfully merges Nanjing’s cultural history with modern design elements, creating a space that is both historically rich and contemporary in its function. It brings together the past and present in a way that makes history accessible while providing a dynamic space for modern commercial use. The thoughtful integration of sustainable design principles and the creative reuse of materials speaks to a future-focused vision that still respects the heritage of the site.
Dayi Design, founded in 2020, is committed to the design and research of unique perspectives in architecture and interior space, creating outstanding visual art for each project. The team has the determination to break through self-boundaries, international design vision and systematic project management strategy. It insists on taking local culture as the starting point, respecting tradition, looking to the future, and practicing the interaction between people and objects, and people in the process of space creation with an exploratory attitude.
The owner Zhou Yi graduated from Nanjing University, is a member of the Chinese Architecture Society, and a visiting professor of the Art Department of Jiangyin College.
After graduation, I studied and worked abroad. When I went deep into the Western cultural context, I felt that the local Chinese culture was more tense and inclusive.
