Inside a Beautiful 1920s Kunming Courtyard House That's Now a Modern Restaurant

Taste the old charm of Kunming at the Daguan restaurant.

On Kunming’s iconic Nanqiang Street, an unassuming wooden gate hides Daguan—a restaurant that feels like stepping into another world. This newly transformed 1920s siheyuan is the latest project by Aurora Design, led by Yang Xuewan.

Kunming’s Nanqiang Street has long been a cultural hotspot, home to the historic “Yunjin Night Market” and echoes of the late Ming and early Qing dynasties. Daguan sits at the crossroads of this rich heritage and the city’s evolving urban energy.

The design team took on the challenge of restoring the century-old residence with a philosophy of “preserving the old as it is.” The result is a space that feels like it’s always been there but has never been seen quite like this before.

The heart of Daguan is its courtyard—a tranquil, open space that connects the past and present. Original brickwork and wooden beams ground you in history, while minimalist furniture, moody lighting, and clean lines bring a modern elegance. The entrance alone sets the tone: a shaded wooden corridor leads you into the courtyard, past a small pond where sunlight shimmers on rippling water and fish tails flicker softly. It’s a moment of calm before stepping into the expansive, sunlit space where tradition and modernity coexist effortlessly.

Inside, the design is all about contrasts. The south-facing bar, with its sleek black surfaces and glossy ceramic tiles, is framed by the warm textures of aged wooden columns. The upstairs spaces offer a more intimate experience, with window-side seating tucked under the eaves, where the creak of wooden window sashes and the whisper of a breeze create a meditative escape. Every detail, from brass door locks etched with auspicious motifs to the careful use of light and shadow, has been considered to balance functionality with an aesthetic that feels timeless.

Daguan also cleverly integrates the bustling energy of Nanqiang Street with its serene interior. Outdoor seating along the street-facing side invites passersby to pause and soak in the blend of old and new. The wood-and-glass construction creates a subtle interplay of cool and warm tones, a tactile representation of history meeting modernity. It’s a space designed for discovery, where every corner offers a new perspective, a fresh layer of charm.

Aurora Design’s approach is understated but deeply intentional. By using natural materials—wood, stone, and soft fabrics—they’ve managed to amplify the beauty of the original structure without overwhelming it. The colour palette is muted and earthy, allowing the textures and natural light to do the talking. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet tea on a rainy afternoon or sharing wine and conversation as the neon lights of Kunming flicker to life, Daguan feels like a space where moments linger, just long enough to become memories.