FUNUN LAB has shared photos of a Japanese-inspired restaurant they designed in Beijing, China, that includes a variety of lighting that helps create a unique interior.
The designers explain that the experience of dining is also an important feature of Japanese aesthetics, with the highest enjoyment of food involving the exchange of sensory experiences, where visual presentation complements the taste and flavors.
With this in mind, the designers applied the traditional Japanese architecture concept of “Teioku ichinyo” in the landscaping of the public space.
In the main dining room, the diners can view a meticulously crafted golden installation hanging from the ceiling as if they saw the reflection of Kinkaku-ji in the water. The decoration was made from Kyoto’s traditional gold forging technique with an antique style endowed by its natural textures. Instead of restoring the cultural icon directly, its design contains a contemporary silhouette formed by minimalistic lines.
Nearby, three pendant lights highlight the seafood, while hidden lighting highlights the shelving on the opposite wall. Guests also have an opportunity to closely observe the chefs as they cook on the portable hearth in the open kitchen, which is located parallel to the dining room.
Inspired by the intricate street patterns of Kyoto’s alleyways as a reference, hallways lined with wood and lights that cast shadows, guide diners to private dining rooms.
The private dining rooms include translucent DuPont paper that’s been paired with plants to provide a sense of elegance reminiscent of Yamamoto Baiitsu’s ink scroll paintings. A light fixture above the tables reflects the light into a curved sculptural element casting a soft glow to the space below.
Hidden lighting along the wood elements adds a softness and calmness to the spaces.
Here’s a look at the floor plan and layout of the restaurant.
