YOJISAN SUSHI

Tasked with creating a dining experience that reflects the elegance of haute Japanese cuisine without relying on overused motifs, the design introduces a fresh, whimsical, and modern perspective. Rather than defaulting to familiar elements like bamboo or rice paper, the space embraces a minimalist yet impactful aesthetic rooted in authentic Japanese materials, culture, and lifestyle.

Upon entry, diners pass beneath a floating canopy of leafy plants, top-lit to evoke the feeling of wandering through a dreamlike Japanese forest. This ethereal gesture is balanced by more grounded elements—reclaimed wood and board-formed concrete—that provide a sense of weight and permanence, mirroring the rustic materials used on the restaurant’s exterior.

The spatial layout takes cues from the form and philosophy of a bento box, offering a composition of varied, intimate zones that reflect the subtle interplay of boldness and delicacy found in Japanese cuisine. Despite its compact footprint, the interior delivers an imaginative and immersive experience, challenging the expectations of its traditionally conservative setting.

The result is a celebrated design that has garnered five local and international awards and earned global recognition, including a cover feature in Grid, a leading German design magazine. It has become a local favorite and a benchmark for innovation in hospitality design.