Akira Back wins in Hotelier Magazine

Designer Highlights

Diners enter the second-floor restaurant via an immersive sculptural staircase with custom gold-leaf finishing. From there, “you’re brought up and then you’re compressed into a space that is much moodier and darker,” explains Maxime Bocken, director of Marketing & Communications, Studio Munge.

The 3,000-sq.-ft. space features layered charcoal tones — including Shou Sugi Ban (traditional Japanese charred wood) inspired walls, dark marble and leather seating — contrasted by gold accents and an impactful blue-and-white-patterned cove ceiling.

The restaurant also boasts a mobile featuring original artwork by chef Akira Back’s mother, which runs the length of the ceiling.

At the far end of the space, the gold-toned sushi bar shines in contrast to the moody atmosphere of the main dining space, effectively book-ending the restaurant in golden elements.

Inspiration

The restaurant was designed to complement the Bisha Hotel and its F&B programming while retaining a distinct brand identity. The design pays homage to traditional Japanese dining, while creating a glamorous, modern atmosphere.

Fun Facts

• The restaurant is the result of a seven-year process, from concept to opening
• Studio Munge was not only responsible for the interior design of the restaurant, but the FF&E design, pro- curement and art con- sultancy for the project
• Studio Munge has worked with Back previously, having partnered with the chef on his restaurant Kumi at Mandalay Bay Resort

Checkout Hotelier’s 2018 winners on page 39 in their new Sept issue