Hot Stone Rai Fitzrovia: A Japanese-Inspired Dining Experience

Creating Art and Delight Through Design

The design of Hot Stone Rai Fitzrovia is centered around complementing the restaurant's passionately artistic food. The dining area is adorned with natural oak, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Mirrored wooden panels, inspired by Japanese latticework, add a touch of elegance and sophistication. The circular elements in the design draw inspiration from the Japanese tradition of moon viewing and the rounded window maru mado commonly found in temples and tea houses in Japan.

One of the standout features of the design is the main wall, which showcases a Hokusai Ukiyoe print as the focal point. Positioned and lit strategically, it captures attention and guides the gaze through the space. The color palette, consisting of raw oak, olive green upholstery, black stained banquette seating, and a carbon black floor, creates a deep yet subtle ambiance.

The over-bar frame, inspired by traditional Japanese Kigumi carpentry, adds a unique touch to the design. Within this frame, cylindrical paper lanterns hang, highlighting the geometry of the structure and playing with shadows and mood. Subtle shades of green on the counter front, combined with the timber structure, create a natural and calming atmosphere, reflecting the essence of Japanese design.

The wall opposite the sushi bar features carefully offset oak slats, set against a vertical gradation in shades of pink. This accentuates the interplay of patterns and brings a light, modern aesthetic to the design.

Hot Stone Rai Fitzrovia was realized using fire retardant oak timber and veneered oak MDF throughout. The attention to detail and the use of traditional Japanese joinery techniques presented challenges in terms of compliance with modern fire regulations. However, through extensive research and collaboration with a carpenter in the UK, the designer was able to find aesthetically appropriate and compliant solutions.

Located in London, the project started in October 2020 and was completed in May 2021. The design incorporates elements of Japanese design philosophy in a modern setting, striking a balance between tradition and contemporary aesthetics.

The result is a dining space that evokes a sense of art, delight, and harmony. The combination of exciting glow and welcoming calmness creates an atmosphere that is modern yet distinctly Japanese in tone. Hot Stone Rai Fitzrovia offers a unique dining experience where the design itself becomes an integral part of the overall enjoyment.

Images:

Image #1: Hot Stone RAI, 2021

Image #2: Hot Stone RAI, 2021

Image #3: Hot Stone RAI, 2021

Image #4: Muzo, 2021

Image #5: Muzo, 2021

This design is the recipient of the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2022. This prestigious award recognizes designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. Hot Stone Rai Fitzrovia contributes to quality of life improvements, making the world a better place.