Hunan Slurp by New Practice Studio

_project: Hunan Slurp
_architecture: New Practice Studio
_location: New York City, United States of America

Architecture has the power to deconstruct stereotypes and challenge prevailing cultural norms through the design and construction of buildings and spaces. The built environment is a reflection of societal values, beliefs and attitudes, and architecture can be used as a tool to disrupt and alter these stereotypes. This is particularly important in a world where stereotypes and cultural biases can have negative impacts on individuals and communities.

One example of architecture being used to challenge stereotypes is the Hunan Slurp project. This project is a noodle shop located in New York, and it aims to challenge traditional notions of what a noodle shop should look like and the type of atmosphere it should provide. The design of the noodle shop was inspired by the concept of “slow food” and the goal was to create a space that was both culturally relevant and relaxing, encouraging customers to slow down and appreciate the food and the atmosphere.

The design of the Hunan Slurp noodle shop is a deconstruction of traditional noodle shop design and culture. The traditional noodle shop is often associated with fast food, with customers rushing in and out and the focus being on the speed of service. Hunan Slurp, on the other hand, incorporates elements such as a large communal table, comfortable seating, and an open kitchen that invites customers to slow down and appreciate the food and the atmosphere. This design challenges the stereotype that noodle shops are just fast food establishments, and instead offers a new perspective on what a noodle shop can be.

The Hunan Slurp project also tackles stereotypes surrounding gender roles in the food industry. In traditional Chinese culture, noodle shops are often associated with men and male chefs. The design of Hunan Slurp, however, includes a female-led kitchen and a female-friendly atmosphere, challenging traditional gender roles in the food industry and breaking down stereotypes about who can work in a noodle shop.

_written by Daniela Moreira Silva
_film by Architecture Hunter
_cover image by Montse Zamorano
_drawings by New Practice Studio:

1. Floor Plan
2. Section 1
3. Section 2