A bold fusion of nostalgia and modernity at 1981 Noodle House

14 Mar 2025

You might think 1981 Noodle House is just a dining destination – but it’s also a journey into the past, infused with playful, contemporary charm. Designed by Ong Design and brought to life with carefully selected Resene hues, this unique space masterfully balances tradition and innovation, offering customers an immersive and memorable experience.

Commissioned by a family-run business with deep roots in the local community, the vision for 1981 Noodle House was clear: to honour the heritage of noodle-making while creating a space that appeals to modern sensibilities. “The inspiration for the interior design stemmed from the year 1981, a time of cultural significance and fond memories for the owners,” says Jason Ong from Ong Design. “They wanted the space to evoke a sense of nostalgia while offering a fresh, updated look that would attract a diverse clientele.”

At the heart of this design lies a striking colour scheme, dominated by the bold Resene Elvis. “We chose Resene Elvis, a vibrant and dynamic shade of blue, as the cornerstone of the interior colour scheme,” Jason says. “This particular hue was selected for its ability to evoke a sense of energy and modernity while maintaining a calming and inviting atmosphere.” The colour serves not only as a visual highlight but also as a connection to the water element, symbolising tranquillity and the flowing essence of noodle-making traditions. 

The bold and dynamic blue of Resene Elvis offers a modern touch to the space. The same vibrant hue is also brought through into décor and furniture creating a harmonious balance within the shop. The ceiling and surrounding walls are painted in Resene Quarter Rice Cake. 

The curvature and flow of the design, in a mix of Resene Elvis and Resene Quarter Rice Cake, highlights the connection to water, symbolising tranquillity and the flowing essence of noodle-making traditions.

Resene Elvis graces the feature walls and accents, establishing a bold yet cohesive aesthetic that immediately captivates visitors. To balance its intensity, Resene Quarter Rice Cake was applied to the remaining walls, providing a crisp, clean contrast that enhances the overall ambiance.

“The design seamlessly blends traditional elements, like handcrafted wooden screens and vintage artwork, with sleek contemporary features,” says Jason. The integration of handcrafted features, sourced from local artisans, added authenticity and character to the space, ensuring it remained deeply rooted in cultural heritage. Another critical aspect was optimising the restaurant’s layout. “We had to create a cosy dining atmosphere while maintaining efficient staff workflow,” Jason notes. Through meticulous planning and innovative spatial solutions, the space is both inviting and functional.

Accents of Resene Elvis are used throughout 1981 Noodle House working to break up the space and add a contemporary touch. The ceiling and walls are painted in a charming white, Resene Quarter Rice Cake.

The shopfront mirrors the vivid blue of Resene Elvis found within, drawing customers inside to experience something truly special.

Sustainability also played a key role in the project, with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient lighting. This commitment to responsible design further reinforces 1981 Noodle House’s status as a forward-thinking establishment that respects both tradition and the future.

This is a project that displays a harmonious, stylish and culturally rich space where patrons can enjoy the time-honoured tradition of noodle-making in a modern setting. Thanks to Ong Design’s thoughtful approach and vibrant, quality paints, 1981 Noodle House stands as a testament to the power of colour, design and storytelling in shaping unforgettable spaces.

Top tip: For high wear and tea areas, like 181 Noodle House, choose a durable waterborne enamel such as Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen for walls in place of a standard acrylic.  It will stand up to the extra wear and be easier to clean and the same finish can be continued into wet areas such as the bathrooms also.

design Ong Design

images Timekeepers

build GJ Interiors

Published: 14 Mar 2025