RESTAURANT PROJECT

Project idea

Project Title: Japanese Culinary Center
Restaurant Type: Food Court Restaurant

Context and Design Concept:

The project is situated in a high-density riverside urban area, benefiting from convenient transportation links and close proximity to cultural and tourist destinations. Amidst the ongoing wave of globalization and the growing popularity of international cuisine in Vietnam, there is an increasing demand for immersive dining environments that reflect the essence of foreign cultures. This project seeks to create a quintessential Japanese culinary space that thoughtfully merges contemporary architecture with traditional sensibilities.

Objectives and Purposes:

To craft a distinctive cultural and gastronomic experience: The design captures the spirit of Japan through architectural language, the use of natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and stone, soft ambient lighting, and a flexible spatial layout that evokes serenity and harmony.

To accommodate a wide range of customers: From families and groups of friends to solo diners and business professionals, the space is divided into several distinct zones—such as tatami rooms, sushi bars, and open dining areas—each offering varying levels of privacy and atmosphere.

To integrate green and sustainable design elements: The building incorporates a living façade, natural lighting, and cross-ventilation strategies to optimize energy efficiency and enhance user comfort, aligning with eco-conscious architectural practices.

To establish a local architectural landmark: With its modern massing, elegant curves, and fluid composition, the structure stands as a new cultural icon, symbolizing the harmonious intersection of traditional values and modern urban life.

Project description

? 1. Overall Design Scope:
Main Structure: A three-story sushi restaurant situated on an irregularly shaped plot of land.

Landscape: Integration of green spaces and gardens creates a relaxing atmosphere that harmonizes with Japanese architectural principles.

Primary Function: A Japanese restaurant specializing in sushi, sashimi, and Teppanyaki, offering a culinary experience that blends tradition with contemporary sensibilities.

? 2. Spatial Layout:
Basement: Dedicated to parking and technical infrastructure.

Ground Floor (Level 1): Parking area and technical systems, along with the main staircase leading to the dining levels.

Second Floor (Level 2): Spacious communal dining area designed to accommodate families and groups, including fast dining zones.

Third Floor (Level 3): Premium experience zone featuring sushi bar seating, Teppanyaki stations, an open kitchen, and VIP rooms.

Floor Plans: Clearly show circulation routes, spatial zoning, and typical furniture arrangements such as single/double chairs and bar counters.

? 1. Architectural Elements
a. Form and Composition

The structure incorporates curvilinear cylindrical forms on both sides, softened and fluid, in contrast with the rectilinear and rigid central volume, achieving a balance between tradition and modernity.

The façade features a clearly articulated vertical hierarchy, with the ground floor designed to be open and transparent through the use of glass, encouraging a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

b. Materials

Timber and vertical wooden slats dominate the façade, serving both as sun-shading devices and as rhythmic architectural elements.

Vertical greenery enhances environmental sustainability while evoking the essence of a Japanese Zen garden.

c. Light and Ventilation

Natural light filters through the wooden slats on the cylindrical forms, creating dynamic shadow effects that enrich the interior ambiance.

The open-plan ground floor, complemented by water features and transitional buffer zones, facilitates natural airflow, ensuring user comfort.

? 2. Interior Design Elements
a. Design Style

The interior adopts a Contemporary Japanese style, characterized by minimalist yet refined design, a focus on functionality, and the use of natural materials like oak wood, natural stone, and bamboo.

Traditional decorative elements such as noren curtains, wall scrolls, paper lanterns, and wooden latticework are thoughtfully incorporated.

b. Typical Furnishings

Single and double dining sets are designed with simplicity and durability in mind, featuring powder-coated black steel legs and oak wood tabletops, offering both aesthetic appeal and stability.

The open sushi bar and Teppanyaki counter encourage direct interaction between chefs and diners, enhancing the performative and experiential aspect of the meal.

c. Color and Lighting

A neutral palette dominated by natural wood tones, black, white, and gray creates a warm yet sophisticated atmosphere.

Soft warm lighting blends with filtered natural light through wooden slats, producing a gentle, inviting ambiance.

? 3. Functional Design
a. Zoning

Ground Floor: Reception, indoor and outdoor waiting areas – designed to create a welcoming and relaxed first impression.

Second Floor: A combination of communal and private dining areas tailored to both group and individual needs.

Third Floor: Premium zone featuring Teppanyaki and sushi bar seating – offering a high-end, interactive culinary experience.

Basement: Circulation, parking, and technical spaces.

b. Circulation

Clearly separated paths for customers, staff, and technical services ensure smooth operations without interrupting the dining experience.

Private areas are thoughtfully positioned with adequate visual shielding, maintaining a sense of intimacy while preserving spatial openness.

? 4. Japanese Cultural Identity
a. Zen Space – Wabi Sabi

The concept of Wabi Sabi – the beauty of simplicity, naturalness, and imperfection – is reflected through unrefined materials, simple spatial composition, natural lighting, and landscape elements.

b. Traditional Symbols

Traditional Japanese icons such as noren curtains, lanterns, paintings of Japanese women, bonsai, and stones are strategically placed to reflect cultural authenticity.

The use of light, open spaces resonates with the Japanese notion of ma – the beauty of empty space.

c. Respect for Nature

The design invites nature into the building through the use of greenery, rocks, and water elements.

Emphasis on natural materials and lighting illustrates the Japanese philosophy of harmony with nature.

✅ Conclusion:
Project represents a seamless integration of:

Modern spatial organization and functionality

Traditional elements through form, material, lighting, and décor

Profound Japanese cultural philosophies of simplicity, respect for nature, and communal dining.

Technical information

Typical Furniture:

Rectangular Table + Single Chair:

Tabletop made of oak wood, dimensions 1600x850mm
Table legs made of oak wood, with distressed finish for accent
Chairs with upholstered seats, made of matching oak wood
Single Table + Chairs:

Rectangular table top, dimensions 850x850mm
Table and chairs made of oak wood
Table legs finished in a contrasting color for emphasis

Documentation

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