MISS CHU

276 Toorak Rd, South Yarra

Visited: 20th March 2014

Design: I visited Miss Chu's on a balmy night which just added to the authentic feel of a Vietnamese street vendor in down town Ho Chi Minh. Despite the lack of a door the design of open air casually blowing in off the street creates a space of comfort and laid back conversation. The single entrance ramp and walls lined with old passport photos work well with the natural timber beams that frame the entrance and divide the front window concealing the eating bench. Once again the lack of door forms a sensation rather than a tactile experience as one enters. I like the fact that from the street you catch a glimpse of the energy inside and even though the interior is exposed, there is still a sense of mystery as to what is down the back behind the long narrow walkway. There appeared to be by-folding doors that went horizontally to the roof. I like the versatility.  

Door resistance: 0

Closure mechanism: Continually open (in summer)

Draft: Maximum

Squeak level: 0

Change return time: 1.46 sec