Monthly Space Shawnino

This post was written in November 2023.

When we pick an outfit from the wardrobe, what goes through our mind? We think about the time of day, the place we're going, who we'll meet, or the nature of the occasion. It's not about randomly choosing any piece of clothing but about selecting the right attire after thoughtful consideration. This might be deeply ingrained in our minds due to the long-standing fashion principle of T.P.O (Time, Place, Occasion). One word that intersects these three concepts is 'space'. Space can be defined as an area that's spread out physically or psychologically, and when we choose our clothes, we consider the 'space' where we will wear them. Monthly Space is not a manual or a guide that strictly adheres to T.P.O; rather, it aims to capture the subtle stories between clothes and spaces. 

Strolling around the vicinity of Yongsan Station, you might come across some stylish stores. You'll see a blend of old buildings and new, vibrant stores, embodying the harmony of old and new. 'Yongsan Ginkgo Tree Road' becomes a lively street filled with youthful energy on weekends. We visited 'Shawnino', an Italian restaurant, this time.

On a side alley, a striking blue door catches your eye. Stepping through it feels like entering the southern region of Italy, with vibrant lemon trees, yellow walls, wooden cabinets, natural light pouring through a glass ceiling, and the bustling kitchen staff. It was a lively space indeed.

Chief manager Choi Seong-hwan dressed for the occasion in a brick-red flannel suit paired with a light blue flannel shirt. On a cold day, the fuzzy texture of brushed wool fabric feels warm and cozy, making it an excellent choice for a semi-formal gathering on the weekend. (Though sharp, shiny worsted fabrics can sometimes feel a bit too formal.)

There's often a sentiment that flannel suits have limited versatility since they are season-specific. However, if you think about it, a garment meant for a specific season tends to last longer in terms of wearability due to less frequent use. You might not realize the necessity until you try it, but once you do, you'll understand its value. (I'm also getting through the season with my flannel suit.)
 

We enjoyed meatballs, mushroom Benedict, rigatoni Bolognese, lemon butter chicken, and a light glass of champagne. Although our visit was in the evening for a hearty meal, the space is also perfect for a light brunch and coffee during the day. It might be nice to visit in the daylight next time to experience a different ambiance.

The cabinets were filled with various dishes and interior items, but what particularly caught our eye were the glasses adorned with lemons. Lemons seem to be a symbolic element of Shawnino. Lemon-themed tea cups, coffee cups, lemon trees on the walls, lemons on the dining table, lemons in water bottles, and even lemon candies handed out when paying the bill. It may seem trivial, but repeating a symbolic element or image makes it easily memorable. Now, 'lemon' equals 'Shawnino' in my mind. Sometimes simplicity is the most effective.

Thanks to the considerate staff of Shawnino, we were able to do a quick photo shoot. I'd like to extend my gratitude to the Shawnino staff who were kind even during their busiest moments. For your information, it's a pet-friendly restaurant, so pet owners might want to keep this in mind.

It’s not boring to wear a suit, 
but it’s wonderful to wear a suit, 
and we introduce it with a space.
 

by egon