Republic Square Asian Diner
Houston
Sherry Tseng Hill, Architect

A new restaurant defines a residential/commercial border

© Rick Gardner

For more photos click on 'photos & drawings' above. To see the people and products behind this project click on 'people & products.'

Located on Westheimer Streeet in a vibrant community of retail and residential neighborhoods, design of this coffee house presented a twofold challenge. In addition to the basic functional requirements, the architects sought to resolve the project's program on a very tight corner site and create a structure with an exciting presence that captures the attention of passing drivers.

The building sits on the northwest corner of the lot to allow easy flow of traffic from Westheimer, while minimizing impact of commercial activity on the residential sides of the site. By turning its back on its adjacent residential neighbors on the north and west with solid brick walls and opening up its south and east facades to the commercial strip with storefronts, the building serves as a billboard in itself. A sloped roof and angled fascias culminate in the southeast corner of the building, drawing the eyes of passersby. A wedged shaped column, while providing a pivotal definition to the main entry, also unifies the various parts of the building through its different tile colors.

Clean, straight lines in the interior reflect the angled roof and storefront, lending visual breadth to a small space. A series of overhangs along the east facing storefront provides shade into the main dining area.

Formal name of Project:
Republic Square Asian Diner

Location:
Houston

Gross square footage:
1,000 sq. ft.

Owner:
The Lam Family

Architect:
Sherry Tseng Hill, Architect