Nestled in the vibrant Sardinero area of Santander, El Camino restaurant emerges as a culinary haven celebrating the essence of raw fish in various iterations. With a vision to craft a relaxed, inviting, and distinctive ambiance, the client sought to infuse the space with elements reminiscent of the ocean’s depths. Boasting picturesque vistas of “La Segunda” beach, one of the city’s most iconic locales, El Camino promises an immersive dining experience where sea and serenity converge.
Undersea Inspiration
Drawing inspiration from the enigmatic undersea world, Zooco Estudio embarked on a design journey that transcends conventional maritime motifs. Eschewing clichés, the architects opted for an abstract approach, harnessing textures and shapes that evoke the ocean’s allure. Curved geometries reminiscent of gentle sea swells define the space, organized into three distinct bands to evoke depth and dimensionality.
Material Palette
In a departure from the expected, Zooco Estudio selected materials imbued with warmth, timelessness, and elegance, paying homage to Asian-Japanese aesthetics. Wood and clay take center stage, evoking a sense of tranquility and harmony synonymous with Japanese design principles. The choice of materials speaks to the essence of Japanese cuisine, infusing the space with an understated elegance and authenticity.
A Sensorial Journey
From bottom to top, the interior unfolds like a narrative, weaving together elements inspired by the aquatic realm. Natural wood accents and textile details evoke the organic curvature of underwater landscapes, while clay surfaces mimic the intricate patterning of fish scales. Transparent cylinders, reminiscent of water droplets, add a touch of ethereal luminosity, casting a mesmerizing glow throughout the space.
Outdoor Oasis
Complementing the interior, a covered outdoor area serves as a transitional space, inviting guests to linger and savor panoramic views of the Sardinero. Here, the terrazzo flooring evokes the sensation of sandy shores, further blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor realms. With its seamless integration of natural elements and thoughtful design nuances, El Camino Restaurant offers a captivating sensory journey that transports diners to the heart of the ocean’s embrace.
Eleanor Russell
