Filipao Nunes Design a Japanese Inspired Restaurant

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a Japanese inspired restaurant design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Filipao Nunes.

Señora Tanaka, a project of extroverted personality and energy, offers a unique and avant-garde design concept. Its interior design with a look towards the Japanese architectural tradition and an urban air, is developed on a single floor; combines the use of lines with clean and simple volumes, textures and materials. Textures play a fundamental role in Señora Tanaka’s design. Natural materials like wood and stone are used in wall and floor coverings, adding warmth and an organic look.

What was the client's brief? 

They were looking to represent a homage to the restaurant Señor Tanaka, inheriting the passion of Nikkei Food. The personality of this project is a sophisticated and energetic female figure, the perfect harmony of a new generation and evolution of the Señor Tanka. Reflecting a fusion of the gastronomy and the architecture of Japanese culture.

What inspired the design of the project?

From the serene and pure textures of Japanese culture, architecture, and interior design. This inspiration guided the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the space.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

Our main challenge was the location of the project, since it is located in one of the main streets of Mexico City inside a building. Our goal was to promote and highlight the restaurant in a way that wasn't overwhelming.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

In the selection and application of lighting and textures. We pay special attention to the details of textures that define Japanese culture. We wanted lighting to play a vital role, taking the space to new heights, using strategic natural elements and raw materials, together with the ingenious manipulation of light.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

It is an incredible opportunity to show the innovative and creative work that my team and I have worked on. It also allows me to compare my project with other featured designs, learn, and contribute to the advancement of the design.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

It is incredibly validating and rewarding for us. A testament to the work, creativity and dedication that we have put into the project.

Questions answered by Filipao Nunes, Founder of Filipao Nunes.