naoya matsumoto imbues earthy tones into the interior of isai restaurant in osaka

Naoya Matsumoto takes over the design of Japanese restaurant

Naoya Matsumoto has designed isai, a Japanese restaurant in Osaka, which features an interior concept inspired by the earth’s nurturing qualities. The space is enveloped in clay walls, evoking the sensation of being surrounded by soil. This design choice aims to create an environment where visitors can feel as if they are emerging from the soil, promoting a sense of renewal and growth.

all images by Takeshi Asano

isai Combines Unique Culinary Experience with Immersive Design

The restaurant, situated in Tenjinbashisuji 7-chome, Osaka, is operated by the owner of a grocery store. This background allows for a focus on attentive services beyond cooking, including discussions on cultivation methods, nutritional information, and history. The restaurant’s intention is to introduce clients to vegetables that are not typically found in markets, enriching their dining experience through all senses.

For the interior, the design team opts for earthy tones, predominantly brown, to provide a calming yet impactful atmosphere. Located at the edge of a shopping street, isai aims to stand out through its unique culinary offerings, attentive service, and immersive space.

clay walls envelop the space, creating a feeling of being surrounded by soil and promoting a sense of renewal

earthy tones, predominantly brown, characterize the calming and impactful design of the restaurant

isai introduces clients to unique vegetables not typically found in markets, enriching their dining experience

isai is operated by a grocery store owner, focusing on attentive services beyond cooking

Naoya Matsumoto’s design for isai integrates the nurturing qualities of the earth into its interior concept

Matsumoto’s design choices at isai emphasize a connection to nature and a focus on sustainability

isai’s design aims to evoke the sensation of emerging from the soil, fostering a sense of growth

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dining area

dining area

kitchen

washroom

project info:

name: Japanese restaurant [ isai ]
architect: Naoya Matsumoto | @naoyamatsumotodesign

location: Osaka, Japan

photography: Takeshi Asano | @_takeshiasano

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom