As the first branch of a Japanese sushi brand in a department store, and a stepping stone to transform into a fine-dining establishment. The original Yatai (food stall) style of the founding store continues, while taking into account the semi-open layout of the venue. The entrance façade is split in three to integrate the visual image, entrance and access functions, together with the sake bar, so that the positioning and service items are immediately visible. The store maintains the same itamae style, with two sushi bars combined with seating and cooking stations, extolling service philosophy and thoughtful Japanese hospitality.
In response to the brand's ambition to upgrade its image, with a composed and assured design context that sets a sophisticated tone. In contrast to the eye-catching appearance of most Japanese restaurants today, we minimized the signage and using only the delicate lines of the latticed grille to convey Japanese elegance, while using glass to evoke the image of Mt. Fuji, subtly bringing in the sense of an exotic ambience. The sake bar is moved to the front to open up the visibility of the new services and the Japanese after-work drinking culture.
