Kopp: A Whirlpool of Innovation in Restaurant Design

Unconventional Use of Materials and Fibonacci Curve Inspire Award-Winning Design

The name Kopp, which means a glass of a drink in the local Goan language, served as a key inspiration for the design. The concept of a whirlpool formed by stirring a drink was visualized as a focal point for the project. The limited budget for the project led the designers to think out of the box, resulting in the unconventional use of recycled PVC drainage pipes and Y bends to create a unique interior decor. This approach not only portrays the design philosophy of repetition of a module to generate a pattern but also keeps patrons engaged with the decor.

The design of Kopp is based on the Fibonacci curve, a mathematical principle often found in nature and aesthetics. The curve was implemented using a module of PVC drainage pipes and Y bends, wrapped around the central column of the restaurant. To enhance the curve in both horizontal and vertical planes, curved panels of plywood cladded with veneer were used. Small physical models were produced to get the exact conical shape of a whirlpool and determine the size and lengths of each module.

The restaurant, located on the ground level of a commercial complex, has an indoor space of 250 square meters and an outdoor area of 100 square meters. The indoor area hosts a bar counter and a kitchen visible to guests, while the outdoor area, visible from indoors, features bright colored decor on a stark white canvas of interiors, creating a vibrant palate.

The project, which started in September 2017 and was completed in November 2017, faced several challenges. The low budget and time constraints led the designers to explore various materials. The connections of the pipes made it easy to repeat the modules, but the challenge was the stability of these connected modules. This was addressed by introducing vertical curved panels in plywood, which not only enhanced the structural stability but also enhanced the entire form of the whirlpool.

Overall, Kopp is a testament to the power of innovative thinking in design. Despite budget constraints and time pressures, the designers were able to create a unique and engaging space that not only attracts clientele but also stays fresh and appealing with future trends in design. The project's success is a testament to the power of unconventional use of materials and the application of mathematical principles in design.