Hanoi 90’s

When the owners of Hanoi 90’s approached Total Fitouts South Canterbury, they had a clear and compelling vision—to create a commercial hospitality fitout that not only served authentic Vietnamese cuisine but transported guests straight to the vibrant streets of Hanoi. Situated in Rolleston, one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing towns just south of Christchurch, the restaurant needed to be more than functional—it had to be immersive. The goal was to recreate the sensory experience of a bustling Hanoi laneway, balancing cultural authenticity with operational efficiency.

Cultural Immersion Through Design

Hanoi 90’s is more than a themed restaurant—it’s a tribute to the owners’ heritage. Every element of the commercial hospitality fitout was chosen with purpose, drawing inspiration from traditional Vietnamese architecture, colour palettes, and textures. The client wanted the restaurant to evoke nostalgia for the streets of Hanoi while introducing locals to a truly authentic experience, brought to life through the creative direction of Element 17.

Total Fitouts South Canterbury embraced the challenge of blending these visual cues with the practical needs of a modern hospitality venue. The result is a stunning interior that immediately transports diners, bringing a nostalgic charm within a Vietnamese streetscape. From the moment you step inside, you’re wrapped in the warmth and visual richness of Southeast Asia—textured walls, vibrant colour blocking, and detailed layering that draws the eye from one corner of the space to another.

Colour, Texture & Theatrical Detail

The palette plays a starring role in Hanoi 90’s. Weathered ochres, sun-faded yellows, burnt sienna, and striking turquoise blues create a backdrop that mimics the timeworn exteriors of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Walls are finished with textured render and custom paint effects that suggest layers of age and history, evoking stories of generations past. The artistry in these finishes helps the space feel lived-in, not manufactured.

Adding their own touch to the commercial design, the Total Fitouts South Canterbury team brought in a local painter and street artist to create bespoke feature walls and an urban-style street scene—elements not part of original design. These additions enrich the immersive aesthetic, making the venue feel even more authentic and character-filled.

Allan Tribble, Director at Total Fitouts South Canterbury said, “Vintage-style shutters in red and blue are mounted against the walls, styled with artificial vines and seasonal floral installations to mimic overgrown alleyways and window-box gardens.”

“One feature wall in the commercial hospitality fitout even includes a red shuttered window framed with cherry blossoms—adding softness and contrast to the rugged textures.”

Adding to the street-side effect, key service areas such as the kitchen pass are framed as if they were old shopfront windows. Stainless steel surfaces blend seamlessly with the artistic surrounds, offering diners a peek into the kitchen without breaking immersion.

Lighting: Warmth and Authenticity from Above

The ceiling of Hanoi 90’s is a show in itself. Suspended from an exposed black ceiling are clusters of rattan and woven bamboo pendant lights—some in traditional birdcage forms, others styled like artisan baskets.

Allan continues, “These pendants hang at varied heights to create a sense of movement and intimacy, casting a soft golden glow across the commercial hospitality fitout that changes throughout the day.”

In the evening, the lighting is deliberately low and atmospheric, designed to echo the intimacy of Vietnamese night markets. During daylight hours, natural light pours through the glass frontage, bouncing off the warm yellows and accentuating the colour layering within the interior.

Furniture & Layout: Comfort Meets Cultural Charm

Dining furniture was selected for both aesthetic and durability. Cane-backed bentwood café chairs recall the French colonial influence in Vietnamese architecture, while natural timber tabletops provide a neutral base against the colourful walls. Built-in booth seating offers comfort and maximises usable floor space without interrupting the overall flow.

Allan further comments, “The floor plan was designed with flexibility in mind—supporting both small and large groups while maintaining easy access for staff and diners. The service counter, clad in timber battening and softened with floral touches, acts as both a practical point of sale and a continuation of the commercial hospitality fitout’s visual narrative.”

A Strategic Location

Rolleston is a township on the rise. With rapid residential development and increased demand for quality dining experiences, the decision to establish Hanoi 90’s here was both culturally significant and commercially savvy. The commercial hospitality fitout occupies a premium tenancy in a new commercial development, surrounded by complementary businesses and high foot traffic.

The local community has embraced the restaurant’s offering, drawn by both the bold interiors and the promise of authentic Vietnamese flavour. For the owners, it was a chance to introduce something entirely new to the area—sharing the spirit of their homeland through food and commercial design.

Challenges and Craftsmanship

As with any concept-driven commercial hospitality fitout, the Hanoi 90’s project came with its share of challenges. The design brief called for surfaces that felt aged and imperfect—yet the reality of commercial compliance required finishes to be clean, safe, and durable.

Allan adds, “Our team worked closely with specialist trades to apply layered paint techniques, aged render effects, and custom installations that delivered on both visual and functional expectations.”

“The ceiling presented another challenge, with exposed ducting and services that needed to be integrated into the aesthetic. By treating these elements in matte black and framing them with the lighting design, my team were able to make them disappear into the overall atmosphere rather than distract from it.”

The coordination of lighting, joinery, painting, and floral styling required expert timing and attention to detail. Every decision was made with the end vision in mind—and the collaborative approach taken by Total Fitouts South Canterbury ensured the result was seamless.

Final Result: A Cultural Landmark in Rolleston

At Hanoi 90’s, food and environment come together in perfect harmony. Diners don’t just come for the meals—they come for the feeling. The space hums with energy and character, offering a rare blend of cultural richness and design sophistication.

This commercial hospitality fitout exemplifies what’s possible when strong design vision is paired with a team skilled in construction, collaboration, and creativity. For Total Fitouts South Canterbury, delivering Hanoi 90’s was more than just building a restaurant—it was about honouring a story, celebrating heritage, and creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Looking for a commercial hospitality fitout? Inquire with Total Fitouts today.