The art of dining extends beyond the plate; it’s about the environment, the atmosphere and the seamless interaction between people and space. When design aligns with a restaurant's culinary philosophy, the experience becomes a journey through flavours and aesthetics. This harmony lies at the heart of a new chapter for a celebrated family restaurant, Another Smith by TasteSpace in the Tak province in Thailand. This second-generation eatery builds on the legacy of Kapor Pla Rim Moei, a successful establishment known for its signature fish maw dishes. With deep roots in Thai-Chinese cuisine, the restaurant’s design bridges cultural traditions and contemporary aesthetics, creating an experience that celebrates both heritage and innovation.

The name ‘Another Smith’ originates from the owner’s surname, Smithikorn, a nod to their family’s culinary success. This blend of identities inspired the Bangkok-based practice’s approach, starting with the logo. Drawing from traditional Chinese family seals, the design incorporates red, a symbol of good fortune, and blue, evoking fish scales and the secret recipes central to the family’s story. The logo design reflects the restaurant’s connection to its roots while signalling its evolution into a modern dining destination.

The structure itself tells a story of collaboration and local context. Built on an open plot, the project features a design developed with Thor Kaichon, specialists in bamboo architecture. Together, they created a space that harmonises natural materials with functional needs. Bamboo holds a special place in Southeast Asian culture, not only as a building material but as a symbol of resilience and versatility. Its ability to grow quickly and adapt to various climates makes it a cornerstone of sustainable architecture in the region. In this project, the use of a special blue dyeing technique developed for the project adds a visual rhythm. This innovation appears throughout the façade design, alternating blue-dyed and natural bamboo arranged in a fish-scale pattern with the striking ceiling in the café area. The result is a space that feels both rooted in tradition and contemporary designs.

The layout of the Thai architecture project is as thoughtfully curated as its visual details. It is divided into three key sections: a restaurant, a café and a jewellery shop. Across the left wing, the office and private dining room provide an intimate experience. The right wing houses the café and main dining area, while the kitchen is strategically positioned at the centre to serve all areas efficiently. This thoughtful planning extends to the operations: the café opens in the morning, catering to early risers, while the restaurant welcomes guests later in the day. The sustainable design ensures an organic flow for both staff and customers, enhancing the overall dining experience.

The Thai designers’ approach balances storytelling with functionality. The perforated wall behind the coffee bar, adorned with the “SM” logo, is a bold visual anchor. The bar counter’s blue diagonal tiles echo the fish-scale motif, creating a cohesive design language. Every detail, from the choice of materials to the spatial arrangement, reflects the restaurant’s narrative. The use of bamboo not only connects the design to the natural surroundings but also reinforces sustainability and craftsmanship.

Water has always held a deep cultural significance in Thailand, symbolising life, renewal and abundance. In the context of this hospitality interior, the use of blue in the materiality and branding pays homage to its cultural connection. It also reflects the central role of water in the family’s fish-based recipes, a nod to the essential resources that sustain both their cuisine and the surrounding community.

The overall ambience of the project is designed to invite relaxation. The restaurant’s integration of interior and exterior elements allows diners to feel connected to their surroundings. Whether enjoying a quiet moment in the café or gathering for a meal in the main dining area, customers are immersed in an environment that feels intentional and welcoming. The designers ensure that the space is not only visually striking but also functional and adaptable.

Family-owned restaurants have always been more than places to eat; they are living archives of personal and cultural histories. In Thailand, where food is deeply tied to tradition, such establishments often evolve to reflect generational shifts. This hospitality design project is a modern iteration of this journey, where the past informs the present and design becomes a tool to tell a story as much as food does.

The Bangkok-based practice’s philosophy is rooted in creating spaces that balance aesthetic appeal with practical considerations. Their work on Another Smith showcases this approach, blending storytelling, sensory details and operational efficiency. By considering how owners, staff and customers interact with the space, the design enhances every aspect of the dining experience. From the carefully planned layout to the curated materials, every element contributes to the restaurant’s unique identity.

Another Smith represents more than just a second-generation restaurant. It’s a space where food and design converge, honouring a family’s culinary legacy while embracing modernity. By combining cultural symbolism, innovative use of materials and thoughtful spatial planning, the practice has created a dining destination that feels timeless yet fresh. In every detail, the restaurant reflects a deep respect for its heritage and a forward-looking vision for what dining can be.

Project Details

Name: Another Smith
Location: 666 Moo 2, Sai Asia Road, Tha Sai Luat, Mae Sot District, Tak 63110, Bangkok, Thailand
Category: Cafe / Restaurant / Bar
Area: 450 Sqm
Completion Date: December 2024
Design office: TasteSpace Co., Ltd.