Project Description
Designed by Hannah Churchill of hcreates, the popular mexican restaurant, El Luchador, opened its second installment in Shanghai Xintandi’s new development, The House.
“El Luchador” means “The Fighter” in English. It is the name for wrestlers in traditional Mexican wrestling, Lucha Libre. Traditionally, the luchadores wore masks to distinguish themselves, a custom that has become an iconic symbol of Mexican culture.
The hand-painted wall art features the luchadores’ masks. Recycled timber flooring, exposed ceiling and industrial detailing take their cue from the first location on Yongkang Road, Shanghai. Sky-blue triangles fall freely onto the white-tiled walls, forming non-repetitive geometric patterns. Half-naked wired shades for pendant lights match the playful wall designs. Large bi-folding doors provide an unobstructed view of the outside.
The opposite side of the restaurant takes on a different look with its vintage floor tiles, hand-woven bamboo lights and cherry red polished wall tiles. The compact restaurant centers the action around a brightly tiled industrial bar. Different sized illuminative balls give the courtyard seating area a unique personality.
Photo credit: Seth Powers