As much as healthy eating satisfies our basic need for food, culinary havens level-up these mundane, common, and traditional rituals into enriching human experiences.
Nothing in particular was specially planned that day during my recent travel adventures in the Philippine’s largest metropolis of Davao. And while roaming around her bustling streets after a quick escapade at a nearby tourist attraction, I lost some of my physical energy - let alone my stomach was suddenly growling. It was certainly reminding me to recharge my strength. Lunch was calling me!
The timing couldn't be more perfect because right beside the sidewalk where I strolled was a boutique mall called Poblacion Market Central.
“Oh, excellent! Just the perfect place to solve my intense hunger. There must be a nice restaurant or eatery somewhere here?” I pondered while glancing around.
And sure enough, an enormous signboard decorated with vibrantly festive illustrations of food offerings, greens, and the bold description “Kukun Food Hall” caught my immediate attention.
Ascending the concrete ramp towards its elevated entrance, I noticed something different about this small shopping center. Unlike other commercial establishments that appeared ordinary, this landmark was colorfully attractive despite its miniscule size. Typical architectural elements such as canopies, ceilings, beams, columns, and walls that we usually ignore were decorated with colorfully creative aesthetics. These expressive additions definitely enhanced this otherwise boring space.
Kukun Food Hall’s primary glass doorway wasn’t even exempted from this artistic expression. Noticeable carvings of floral patterns lined up the wooden trapezoidal archway serving as the main portal of the enclosing glass panels - matching the venue’s brand name overhead. Below, black and white floor tiles of distinctive beehive geometries hinted of the overall spatial layout and material finish.
However, my first visual impression of the mall’s semi-covered foyer obviously didn't compare to what I was about to discover inside!
“Oh my gosh! Is this a food hall or an art museum? Unbelievable!” My jaw dropped on the spot.
Unlike the conventional designs of contemporary culinary spaces we’ve encountered in other locations, Kukun Food Hall was undeniably a tremendous explosion of artistry!
The surrounding walls weren’t just plainly painted. They were adorned with interesting murals of lush nature, exotic fruits, food images, and cultural tidbits of their home city of Davao - all radiating with generous splashes of vivid colors. How’s that for starters?
Furthermore, the illumination of the streamlined LED strip-lighting and other accent lights installed were just enough - it wasn’t too dark nor too bright. The provided furniture consisting of groups of tables and chairs were professionally organized without congesting the floor layout. People can still move around conveniently while others were savoring their mouthwatering meals. The guiding principles of anthropometrics were certainly incorporated into this architectural masterpiece.
In fact, the entire setting demonstrated an organic ambiance, blending nature-inspired collections with a contemporary design character. If there was one obvious aspect that elevated this exquisite environment, it was clearly its extravagant celebration of eye-catching colors!
Here’s a nugget of knowledge:
From an interior design perspective, food halls are essentially different from typical restaurants, cafes, and other dining places where limited and specialized menus are offered. On the other hand, they’re usually organized with a central seating area surrounded by several food stalls serving a diverse collection of culinary delights such as traditional cuisine or street food. Hence, there are more options to choose from to satisfy your personal cravings. This standard setup is quite common in the Philippine market scene.
One of my most admired architectural details of Kukun Food Hall was certainly its artistic ceiling layout. It consisted of suspended square panels fashioned out of stained glass shining in various colors and back-lighted by warm bulbs. Aren’t they spectacular?
On one corner, I also observed a middle-aged lady wearing a face mask who was just lingering at her spot, investing her time in absorbing the glorious splendor of this food court. Well, who knows? Perhaps, she was also there just like me - fully immersing in the sensual extravaganza of the magnificent space we’ve just explored.
I unexpectedly arrived at this mall only searching for food. Instead, I stumbled upon something far more nourishing - an exhilarating experience of architecture and design that transformed an everyday routine into an unforgettable event!
After enjoying a sumptuous lunch, I couldn’t avoid smiling on my way to the exit. You see, most places are intentional destinations, yet others like our featured Kukun Food Hall are priceless gifts - waiting, lurking, sleeping…until the ideal moment reveals them!
Would you have reacted differently?
Be faithful to your own taste because nothing you really like is ever out of style.
BILLY BALDWIN
