Dan Dan Goodman's Fields

Interior fit-out of an upscale contemporary Sichuan restaurant in a major London housing development.

Aldgate East / London

Hospitality / Restaurant

Dan Dan Restaurant represents a thoughtful blend of contemporary design and cost-effective execution, embodying the vibrant spirit of Sichuan cuisine within a modern architectural framework. Mailen Design approached the project in Goodman’s Fields, a new development in Aldgate East, with a focus on efficiency and raw materiality, selectively integrating unfinished elements to maintain an authentic, unpretentious aesthetic whilst adhering to budget constraints. The result is a space that effortlessly balances bold design with operational practicality, setting a new standard for upscale fast-casual dining environments and serving as proof of concept for scalable implementation in future locations. .

Dan Dan Restaurant's eye-catching exterior sets the tone for a contemporary Sichuan dining experience in Goodman's Fields.

The main dining area combines sleek design with practical functionality, offering a comfortable and stylish setting for diners.

Custom lighting and neon signage enhance the dining ambiance, reflecting the vibrant spirit of Sichuan cuisine.

The bar area integrates modern aesthetics with functional design, creating a dynamic space for social interaction.

Pano_0115_0117 - 221222_Mailen_Design_DanDan_Noodles - ©Peter Landers Photography - Medium

Project highlights

At a glance

Design philosophy

Dan Dan Restaurant’s design merges functionality with contemporary aesthetics, reimagining the essence of Sichuan dining in a modern, urban London context. To achieve an efficient and cost-effective fit-out, Mailen Design embraced the space’s existing raw materials, balancing concrete walls and exposed ceilings with warm timber accents and bold signage. This thoughtful use of unrefined elements creates a dynamic environment that resonates with modern design principles while addressing the practical constrains and needs of our client.

Sustainability

Sustainability was a central focus in the design process. Mailen Design selected durable, natural materials like timber to ensure longevity and reduce the need for frequent replacements. The kitchen was carefully designed for operational efficiency, supporting sustainable practices by minimising energy use and waste. Large windows were incorporated to maximise natural light, enhancing the dining experience while reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

Challenges and solutions

A key challenge was maximising space efficiency while accommodating the diverse needs of an upscale fast-casual dining concept in a new development in London. Mailen Design meticulously planned the layout to include 54 covers, creating distinct areas for both casual and main seating. The bar and kitchen were strategically designed to streamline preparation and cooking, ensuring smooth and efficient operations. Large windows were incorporated to flood the space with natural light, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.

Outcome

Dan Dan Restaurant has become a standout addition to Goodman’s Fields, bringing dynamic design and an inviting atmosphere to the new urban development in Aldgate East. The project exemplifies Mailen Design’s expertise in hospitality architecture, demonstrating our ability to craft spaces that are functional, visually compelling, and mindful of practical constraints. The restaurant’s success and subsequent recognition through multiple design and architecture awards underscores our commitment to understanding the unique needs of our hospitality clients and delivering a space that exceeds all expectations.