The recent arrival of JING, known for its high-energy atmosphere and globally inspired fare with Asian influences, has elevated Scottsdale’s thriving restaurant scene. The tony eatery, located in a former Jason’s Deli transformed by an $11-million makeover, embraces founder Charlie Huang’s belief in balance and feng shui principles. Clad in striking Art Deco-inspired interiors designed by Heather Hassan of Chapin House and Ann Motokane of Emiko Design, JING’s eye-catching decor dazzles guests at the entrance with a dramatic waterfall chandelier suspended over a central wraparound bar. Layered with bold, rich materials, from lush green velvet booths and burled wood surfaces to sparkling glass columns and dazzling fire and water features, the chic eatery offers a multi-sensory dining experience. JING, which translates in English to “energy,” has locations in Aspen, Denver and Las Vegas. 

Hassan and Motokane give us insights into their design journey, from inspiration to their creative process.  

How did you transform this building?

Hassan: We took an overlooked space and turned it into something vibrant and cool. It went from 4,100 square feet to 9,100 square feet. Our goal was for the footprint to feel intentional and not expansive. We took it from a deli to a destination.

How did you achieve that 1930/1940s Shanghai aesthetic?

Hassan: We wanted an art deco vibe, and the goal was to create an elevated and inviting space. It’s definitely art deco, but through a tropical lens. There are a lot of curves, which makes it sexy and cool. We wanted something that felt glamorous, but still rooted in Scottsdale’s energy.

Can you talk about some of the materials and design principles you used?

Motokane: We leaned into bold, rich materials and symmetry, which are the hallmarks of art deco, but we wanted it to have a softness. Our color palette included lush greens and warm corals with layered textures. We used burl wood throughout the restaurant and some fun animal prints. It feels sophisticated rather than thematic.

Does JING Scottsdale share any features with previous locations?

Motokane: There are fire and water elements, which are in all the JING restaurants. That’s really important to founder Charlie Huang. He believes in balance and feng shui, so we incorporated that into the design.

Tell us about that showstopping chandelier.

Hassan: It’s a custom piece. We had to create, design, make and engineer it. It took a very long time, but it was a total labor of love. We wanted a statement piece that felt bespoke and integral to the space. It’s unique to JING and defines the experience. It’s a wow moment when you walk into the front door. The bar and the chandelier are the heartbeat of the restaurant.