Nestled in the scenic town of Shirahama with a breathtaking view of Engetsu Island, 303 Shirahama Italian offers more than just culinary delights—it embodies a deep connection to its coastal surroundings in Wakayama prefecture, Japan. Formerly a guest house steeped in family history, the restaurant sits gracefully amidst the town’s picturesque coastline, inviting patrons to immerse themselves in a seamless fusion of land and sea.
Drawing Inspiration from Nature
My design journey began with a profound appreciation for Shirahama’s natural beauty, particularly the ever-changing expressions of the sea. Inspired by the mesmerizing play of light and water, I sought to capture this dynamic essence within the restaurant’s interior. Polycarbonate partitions, infused with blue gradation sheets reminiscent of the ocean’s hues, delineate the dining area while maintaining a sense of openness and connection to the surrounding seascape.
Captivating Visual Elements
These translucent partitions, visible from both inside and out, serve as captivating focal points, drawing patrons into a unique sensory experience. Complemented by corrugated materials that refract and reflect light in captivating ways, the partitions become dynamic canvases for the interplay of natural and artificial illumination. Pendant and bracket lights strategically positioned to diffuse light across the blue surfaces further enhance the immersive ambiance, evoking the ever-shifting moods of the sea.
Harmonizing Materiality
In crafting the restaurant’s aesthetic, I carefully selected materials that echo the coastal environment’s abstract essence. Brushed stainless steel and ribbed glass, chosen for their ability to refract light effectively, complement the polycarbonate partitions, infusing the space with a sense of fluidity and movement. These elements harmonize seamlessly with the restaurant’s blue plaster walls, creating a cohesive design narrative that pays homage to Shirahama’s iconic beachscape.
A Synthesis of Nature and Design
303 Shirahama Italian is more than just a dining destination—it’s a celebration of the intrinsic connection between nature and design. By translating the beauty of the coastal landscape into tangible design elements, the restaurant offers patrons an immersive journey through Shirahama’s rich cultural and natural heritage. As guests savor exquisite Italian cuisine, they are invited to embark on a sensory exploration of the sea’s boundless beauty, captured within the heart of the restaurant’s captivating design.
Levi Perry
Sakura Ito
