Image Credit : Andrew Worssam (Sydney based Architecture and Interior Design Photographer)
Project Overview
Monster Sushi & Bar is located in the midst of the modern and ever-changing cityscape of Sydney CBD.
While maintaining its focus on the cultural origin of Japanese cuisine, Span Design have emulated a reflection of its contemporary context and designed a harmonious mix of creativity, fun and sophistication.
Span Design took to imitate the shape of their own designed ‘Monster’ and its form has inspired elements within the design.
Project Commissioner
Project Creator
Team
Elton Chen
Korina Press
Project Brief
Inspired by spirits, monsters and demons tending to places of worship in Japanese mythology, we were entertained by the idea of a being guarding over a sanctuary, and in turn created our own ‘monster’.
We allowed its character and shape to inform the structure, colour and atmosphere of the space, consequently creating a harmonious mix of creativity, fun and sophistication while paying homage to its cultural heritage.
Our ‘monster’ becomes represented in abstracted elements throughout the space. The strategic placement of fragmented ears and teeth allow for the bar to become a focal point which lead the eye through the space and to the central seating. Whilst the motif of circular ears create intimate moments of detail for shelving and display.
Placement of accent lighting within these forms highlight the design motifs and assist in establishing the overall playful energy of our ‘monster’.
Project Innovation/Need
While respecting the traditional concept of Japanese culinary culture, we wanted to challenge the classic spatial aesthetic and function of a sushi bar by inserting a bold and playful colour palette that encapsulates the contemporary characteristic. The open and performative kitchen display of a sushi bar remains along with the sushi conveyor belt that stretches across the restaurant. The modern twist that adds extra personality to this Japanese restaurant is the cosy sized beverage bar located comfortably beside of the main seating area.
We took the risk by giving this project something unique and not often associated with a sushi bar via a refreshing variety of material combinations, vibrant colours and accentuated shapes throughout the interior and its decorations. With Monster Sushi & Bar, we aimed to accumulate a new blend of "contemporary meets classic".
Design Challenge
Multiple functions within a restricted space and a fixed budget meant that there are limitations to the spatial capacity and design input. The challenge then lied within the placement of each performative function of both back and front of house (i.e. kitchen, bar, and customer service area).
We had to ensure that each has enough space to operate practically and efficiently, whether in their own located space or the communal area that must be shared.
Due to this, the overall spatial organisation was a difficult step to conclude for our team. However, we made sure to consistently communicate and strategically work with the client to resolve a strategy and rearrange for the best possible solution.
Sustainability
We always consider the location of each project or fit-out and look for a way to make use of natural lighting. Monster Sushi & Bar is an excellent example of how we design with the conscious choice to maximise the natural source of light. We took advantage of the street-level location of this fit-out, and allow the shop front to remain broad and clear to the outside with steel frames and glass panels that extend from the ground up to the ceiling. This simple application let natural light into the shop during the day, while staying well-lit and visible to the outside with LED lighting during the night. The use of LED lighting became an informed aesthetic and practical decision as a sustainable alternative to other light applications.
We support local businesses; therefore, we seek locally sourced furniture, materials and finishes for the majority of our projects and whenever possible. Monster Sushi & Bar is another one of our many projects that used locally-sourced products.
Interior Design - Hospitality - Casual
This award celebrates innovative and creative building interiors, with consideration given to space creation and planning, furnishings, finishes, aesthetic presentation and functionality. Consideration also given to space allocation, traffic flow, building services, lighting, fixtures, flooring, colours, furnishings and surface finishes.
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