Meule is a minimal restaurant located in Seoul, South Korea, designed by yellow paper. Meule draws inspiration from Claude Monet’s renowned ‘Haystacks’ series (1890-91). The name “Meule,” which means haystack in French, encapsulates the essence of the restaurant, where seasonal foods reflect the passage of time, much like Monet’s paintings. The interior of Meule features a space defined by two columns representing haystacks from Monet’s series, crafted from color stainless steel. A long communal table serves as the centerpiece, inviting guests to gather and share meals. Traditional Korean hanji paper surrounds the space, capturing the subtle changes in color and light depicted in Monet’s work.

This lacquered hanji, made from natural materials using traditional techniques, transforms the ambiance throughout the day, mirroring the delicate shifts in natural light seen in the ‘Haystacks’ paintings. The unique texture and scent of the hanji further enhance the restaurant’s atmosphere. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the hanji and wooden lattice windows at Meule serve a practical purpose. The restaurant is housed in an old building reinforced with steel frames, exposing H-beams throughout the space. To maximize storage and maintain visual harmony, recessed shelves made from reclaimed wood were integrated into the space created by the H-beams. Lattice windows conceal unnecessary elements, allowing customers to fully appreciate the thoughtfully designed interior.