Crying Tiger

David Collins Studio’s design concept for Crying Tiger brings the energy of Southeast Asia to the heart of Chicago, merging the vibrancy of night markets with the city’s industrial and architectural heritage. An urban vernacular of steel frame construction, exposed ceilings and factory windows have been translated into a materials palette of patchworked metals, louvered glass screens and artisanal plasterwork. The restaurant interiors have been designed as a fusion of this unique architectural vernacular with Southeast Asian dining traditions such as fresh produce, vibrant colours and open flame cooking.

Exposed ceilings, plaster and metal mesh wall finishes are contrasted with an abundance of rich drapery fabrics, hanging from the ceiling and cocooning diners. An open kitchen concept transforms the dining room into a performance space, with fire, heat, and culinary craftsmanship on full display.

An abstracted patchwork motif, inspired by the unique topography of traditional Thai rice paddy fields, is used throughout - from the marble flooring pattern, metal screen structures to custom lighting and metal cladding. Rich and contrasting materiality define Crying Tiger, from marbles in a leathered finish (matt and subtly textured), patinaed metals and stacked terracotta tiles to delicate drapery fabrics in emerald, golden ochre, amber and saffron. Authentic Thai elements come in the form of luxurious glazed tiles and three commissioned statement chandeliers, crafted by Thai artist PiN from repurposed waste metal.