Aaya's interior design beautifully merges the essence of a traditional Kyoto temple with the sleek characteristics of Japan's contemporary retail spaces and modern architecture. Every detail is meticulously crafted to create a unique ambiance.
The design quality at Aaya is ensured by a talented and innovative team that combines graphic design, lighting, and furniture design to create an internal environment that is both distinctive and harmonious. Notable figures in the design world, such as renowned graphic designer Made Thought and British furniture designer Barber Osgerby, have contributed to the project. Their collaborations with high-profile fashion brands and award-winning furniture companies like Established & Sons highlight their expertise. Leading the project is David Archer, a distinguished architect known for his partnerships with celebrated designers and hotel operators, providing Aaya with a solid foundation of creative excellence.
The architectural approach emphasizes the use of decorative scatter lights and traditional Japanese materials, crafting a vibrant atmosphere that enhances the lifestyle of the SOHO area and complements the dining experience on Brewer Street. Every surface within the establishment has been thoughtfully designed; the ceiling features bleached oak beams adorned with a tatami pattern in a precise geometric layout. The walls are framed with black oak and include translucent glass windows, offering a modern twist on traditional Japanese sliding screens. Warm light is artfully refracted through the building's surfaces, with discreet LED lights illuminating the space through bronze panes and ribbed glass, creating a stunning effect on the polished marble floor.
Translucent glass partitions offer diners unobstructed views, while the furniture design is minimalist, allowing light to flow freely and enhancing the overall message of the space. The carefully curated furniture collection not only showcases exceptional craftsmanship but also fosters a cozy, homelike atmosphere.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by a bar that extends the length of the space, separated from the dining area by a striking back wall made of corrugated wood. This wooden feature creates a dynamic interplay with light. At the heart of the restaurant is a 10-meter-long sushi console situated beneath the staircase, resembling a jeweler's display case, where sashimi is elegantly showcased under glass and illuminated by hidden lighting, elevating the culinary experience into a visual delight. The countertop is designed to facilitate interaction between diners and the chef, fostering a sense of connection.
Aaya also features decorative elements inspired by traditional kimono patterns, which serve as symbolic reminders of cultural heritage. The patterns, rendered in red and silk rust, are incorporated into the design of the suspended lighting fixtures. Additionally, these motifs are etched into the oak walls using CNC technology. Access to the restaurant is granted through a grand oak door adorned with a repeating pattern reminiscent of traditional Japanese design, welcoming guests into a space that celebrates both heritage and modernity.
Overall, Aaya stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, creating an inviting and sophisticated dining experience.
