Design inspired from the ‘pleats’ of traditional Japanese hand fan

THOMAS Klein International (TKI), the region’s leading restaurant and hospitality consultants, and its  Chicago- based architects PS Studio, have completed the interior design of the new Wasabi outlet located on the Kuwaiti Corniche, in Point 5.

The main inspiration behind the design of the new Wasabi restaurant stems from the ‘pleats’ of the traditional Japanese hand fan.

“The radial geometry of the site resembled a form similar to the Japanese hand fan, therefore the idea of using the fabric and the pleating technique materialised in the choice of window coverings, light fixtures and movable partitions,” explains architect Paula Palombo.

“All the window coverings are pleated and can be raised and lowered to achieve the desired atmosphere. The light fixtures also have pleated fabric but with a unique angle that adds a new dimension to a familiar shade.”

The movable partitions, which are a fundamental element in traditional Japanese architecture, are used to allow spatial enclosure of the entrance and space for private dining.

The outlet will also showcase a striking ‘feature wall’ which will serve as a backdrop for the activity in the dining area.

“We chose a three-dimensional ceramic series called Bamboo. The cylindrical bamboo poles are stacked to create a vertical effect. The poles are also positioned at different angles to create a dynamic background, along with a variety of different finishes to add rich textures.”

“We also incorporated Torii Chairs by Bensen in the restaurant design, as the design of the chairs is inspired by the traditional wood entrance arches to the Shinto shrines in Japan. These simple, yet subtly sophisticated wooden chairs provide a definite sense of harmony and calm within the allocated space,” added Palombo.

Once opened, the new Wasabi restaurant will set the benchmark in design for any additional Wasabi outlets opened, while all the existing Wasabi outlets will be transformed to match the new brand image and positioning.

“Currently the Sultan Group has four other Wasabi outlets operating as part of their portfolio, but they wanted to launch a totally new, fresh image. The newest Wasabi store in Point 5 will reflect the brand’s new world-tendencies of freshness, transparency and lightness, offering a totally new look and feel,” said Daniel During, principal and managing director of TKI. 

“We plan to adapt this new design to all future Wasabi outlets so as to convey a strong unified new image of the brand,” concluded During.

Wasabi located in Point 5 is expected to open in the second quarter of 2012.

The Wasabi chain of restaurants is owned and managed by the Epicure Group, the food and beverage division of The Sultan Group.