Ching Ming Kyoto: A Restaurant Design by Takuji Kamio

Expressing Light as Art

Kamio faced several regulations regarding the ceilings in the train station building, which led him to think creatively about the lighting. Instead of using traditional ceiling lights, he understood and expressed the lights as artistic elements. The result is a visually stunning experience for diners.

The line lights in Ching Ming Kyoto are formed in triangle shapes and continuously connected to surround the seating areas. This unique lighting design creates an immersive and captivating ambiance, enhancing the dining experience for guests. Kamio's intention was to make the lighting a central feature of the restaurant, turning it into a work of art in itself.

To emphasize the artistic feeling, Kamio covered the walls with oil paintings that tell Chinese old stories. These paintings are given a modern twist with the addition of geometric patterns, creating a fusion of traditional and contemporary aesthetics. The combination of artistic graphics and effective lighting systems adds depth and richness to the overall design.

The design team, led by Kamio, meticulously planned and coordinated the various graphic expressions in the restaurant. They filled up drawings with graphic patterns and shared these images with all staff members to ensure a common vision. Actual life-size drawings were printed out and discussed to determine the desired effects. This attention to detail and collaboration resulted in a cohesive and harmonious design.

Ching Ming Kyoto spans an area of 110 square meters and is located in Kyoto, Japan. The project took place from September 2018 to March 2019.

Throughout the design process, the team utilized 3D images and models to understand the visual effects of the line lights in different seating areas. They also conducted research on Chinese stories and art paintings in libraries to inform the wall graphics, adding cultural depth to the design.

One of the most challenging aspects of the project was achieving the right balance and placement of the lighting. Due to the restrictions on ceiling fixtures, the team had to hang all the lighting equipment. By painting the ceiling black, they emphasized the floating effect of the line and ball-shaped lights. Finding the appropriate balance and locations for these different lighting shapes required meticulous attention to detail and was crucial in creating the desired atmosphere.

Ching Ming Kyoto, designed by Takuji Kamio, is a testament to the power of art and lighting in creating a unique and immersive dining experience. The combination of impressive line-shaped lights and carefully curated wall graphics transports guests into a world where tradition meets modernity.

Image Credits: Satoru Umetsu, nacasa and partners

Intellectual Property Notice: Ichii Kamiodesign

Awards and Accolades: Ching Ming Kyoto was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2022. This prestigious award recognizes designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.