Syunkato Soba: A Masterpiece of Simplicity and Sophistication

Atsushi Kawaguchi's Award-Winning Design for a Japanese Restaurant

The design concept was inspired by the characteristics of soba noodles - a simple cuisine with a rich history. Kawaguchi aimed to create a space that would leave the cuisine as the central player, avoiding excessive decoration and focusing on simpler, cruder materials. High-quality materials were used unprocessed as much as possible to maximize the expression of their textures, strength, and crudeness.

The restaurant is spread over 170 square meters, with the first floor housing the bar, soba making area, and counter kitchen. To provide a relaxing atmosphere for dining, the ceiling height was lowered from the previous 3.6m to 2.4m. The wooden hanging frame above the counter ensures the openness of the space, while properly dividing the guest tables and the kitchen. The second floor houses the tables, with wooden partitions ensuring comfort and privacy.

All the furniture in the restaurant is original, designed specifically for this space. The materials used for interior decoration were not processed more than necessary, allowing the original expression of the material to shine through. Despite the use of common domestic materials in Vietnam, they were upgraded into sophisticated, high-quality finishing materials through originality and ingenuity in processing methods, presentation, and combinations.

The project started in April 2015 and was completed in October 2015. The design process involved careful observation of the cityscape near the site and study of the interior decoration of neighboring restaurants. The result is a quiet and comfortable space that transports guests away from the bustle of the city and into a different world where they can experience the essence of Japan through soba cuisine prepared by a soba master.

The design faced several challenges, including creating a high-class atmosphere using familiar materials, and making the atmosphere of Japan with materials available in Vietnam. The elongated site also posed a challenge in arranging efficient passenger seats and kitchen. However, these challenges were overcome with creativity and technical expertise, resulting in a design that stands out for its simplicity and sophistication.

In conclusion, the Syunkato Soba restaurant is a masterpiece of design that reflects the essence of Japanese soba cuisine. Its simplicity, sophistication, and attention to detail make it a deserving winner of the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award. It serves as a testament to Atsushi Kawaguchi's design philosophy and skill, and a beacon of innovative design in the heart of Hochiminh city.