Interview about Ito Restaurant, winner of the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award 2023
Ito's shopfront starts with a Karesansui landscape showing bold water current images and bamboo trees. At the entrance is a reception area designed with metallic and natural materials. Walking through the interior, it is a Shiheyan layout. There is an atrium space in the center with private rooms in an earthy tone on its south, east, north, and west corners. Two open kitchens reserved for Robatayak and Teppanyaki cuisines are in the rear part. They are like the open space under the eaves of traditional Japanese houses where families and friends gather and chat during leisure time.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsThe integration of Karesansui landscape with the Siheyuan layout creates a serene and harmonoius environment that encourages relaxation and contemplation. This unique spatial narrative allows diners to experience a blend of Japanese and Chinese cultural elements, fostering a deeper approeciation for the culinary offerings. The thoughtful arrangement of space promotes a sense of intimacy while celebrating nature, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The contemporary interpretation was inspired by a desire to innovate while respecting tradition. The metallic bamboo screens symbolize resilience and modernity, reflecting the dynamic nature of contemporary design. The artful ceiling designs add a layer of artistic expression, creating a striking visual contrast that elevates the dining atmosphere. This approach aims to bridge the gap between classical aesthetics and modern sensibilities, offering a fresh perspective on Japanese design.
The 375 square meter space led us to use corridors and glass screens instead of solid walls, enhancing visibility and flow. This design choice fosters an open atmosphere, allwoing natural light to permeate and creating a sense of spaciousness.
The reflective rippled mirror-polished steel ceiling was conceived as a way to enhance light reflection and visual interest. This innovative design not only adds a unique aesthetic but also helps in creating an illusion of height and space.
The Atrium, Mystery of Nature, and Periphery sections are designed to offer distinct experiences while maintaining a cohesive narrative. Each are transitions smoothly, guiding diners through a journey that reflects different aspects of Japanese culture.
By integrating Robatayaki and Teppanyaki open kitchens, we draw on traditional Japanese house designs to encourage social interaction. This layout invites diners to engage with chefs, fostering a communal dining experience.
The environmental consciousness at Ito Japanese Restaurant is reflected in multiple sustainable design choices. In addition to engineered wood flooring and energy-efficient LED lighting, we have implemented an MVAC system with sensors to optimize engergy use. We utilize two types of curtains: sheer curtains in the summer to allow natural light while maintaining airflow, and thicker fabric curtains for winter to enhance insulation. Bamboo, a sustainable material, is also incorporated into the design. Furthemore, all wallpapers and paints used are eco-friendly, ensuring a commitment to sustainability throughtout the restaurant. These elements collectively demonstrate our dedication to conservation and creating an environmentally responsible dining experience.
The dynamic water current images and bamboo trees at the entrance of Ito Japanese Restaurant create an inviting and serene atmosphere that captivates guests from the moment they arrive. This striking design sets a tranquil tone and evokes a sense of hope and discovery, suggesting that beyond the initial darkness, there is a beautiful and welcoming space waiting to be uncovered. This entrance perpares gusets for a unique dining experience that embodies the essence of Japanese aesthetics, encouraging them to immerse themselves in a journey of culinary delight and cultural appreciation.
In designing Ito within Parkview Green, we achieved a balance between authentic Japanese elements and contemporary creativity by thoughtfully selecting key features and concepts from traditional design rahter than simply copying them. By integrating these elements with innovative ideas in layout and functionality, we created a unique space that harmoniusly blends the essence of Japanese aesthetics with modern design, resulting in a fresh and dynamic dining experience.
The earthy-toned private dining rooms, each designed with a unique concept and matching wallpapaer, enhance both intimacy and privacy for guests. Eash wallpaper features a distinct color and 3D texture that aligns with the overall design scheme, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. While some walls showcase layered wood cubes at varying levels, other feature illuminated laminated glass, creating visual interest without overwhelming the space. This thoughtful approach ensures that not every wall has a prominent feature, maintaining a blaanced and harmonious environment throughout the restaurant.
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