Room III and Kappou Mu Form A Nature-Inspired Dining Space

In H-Zentre in the heart of Hong Kong’s bustling Tsim Sha Tsui, Minus Workshop has created a striking new Japanese gastro bar. Founder Kevin You tells us more

Design Anthology: What was the brief to you for the project?

Kevin Yiu: The client tasked us with designing an exceptional Japanese gastro bar in the central part of the mall, with a size of 240 square metres. The primary goal was to create a memorable, immersive experience for guests, achieved through a striking and easily identifiable bar at the heart of the establishment. To complement this contemporary cocktail bar, the client wanted to serve a range of izakaya-style small bites, so table size was a consideration. They also wanted to feature a hidden omakase-style kappou counter, adding a sense of intrigue and mystery for curious guests. Finally, the client requested a private room to cater for events. 

The overall style of the establishment was about creating a dramatic experience drawing on Japanese culture, utilising traditional and contemporary techniques to create a unique ambience.

What’s great about the neighbourhood and what makes the location unique?

The neighbourhood is bustling with activity, as H-Zentre offers a unique blend of dining, wellness and retail trade all within one tower. The area is heavily influenced by Japanese commercial elements, with cultural aspects woven throughout. You’ll find tall windows that frame a tall tree at one corner of the space, adding a touch of nature to the urban surroundings.

The neighbourhood also boasts some fascinating landmarks, including K11 Musea, The Peninsula Hotel, the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Hong Kong Space Museum and the famous Victoria Harbour seafront. All these surroundings make the location truly unique.

How did you approach the project? What design references/narrative did you try to incorporate into the space?

We drew inspiration from Mexican architect Tatiana Bilbao’s famous mirror house design, incorporating mirrored facades to blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Forest-green pebble flooring enhances the experience, while the arrival station directs guests towards the dual-concept restaurant, combining traditional Edomae-style omakase and a contemporary gastro bar. The dining space is humble, constructed with Japanese cedar, offering an immersive and unique experience that demonstrates traditional Japanese culinary professionalism.

Tell us about the material choices.

The space features a careful selection of materials to enhance the overall design concept and provide a unique atmosphere. Mirrored stainless steel creates an illusion that allows simultaneous foreground and background viewing. The forest-green floor offers a tactile experience that aligns with the illusion of nature. Mud walls in the kappou space evoke the aesthetic of Japanese culinary shokunin artisans, while the cedar lends warmth to the culinary experience. In addition, we used tinted leaf wallpaper to create extra natural ambience.

Tell us about some of the custom pieces.

The space features various custom pieces that enrich the atmosphere and give it a unique flair. These include a mirror box with a hidden entrance, a 14-seat counter made of Japanese cedar and located under eaves inspired by traditional sushi rollers, a mirrored stainless steel caged bar resembling a Japanese helmet, and a centre lamppost statement inspired by traditional lampposts. Mirrored panels with crystal beads create a feminine touch in the inner lounge, while a moss-like carpet pattern, a bamboo chandelier, tinted leaf wallpaper and a plastered sphere that appears different from different viewing angles create an overall atmosphere that we think evokes luxury and comfort.

Do you have a favourite element or design detail in the architecture or interiors?

We love every element and design detail that we’ve curated. It’s a space that has been custom-made to fit the needs of our client, creating a unified art piece that combines sleek aesthetics with functionality. Additionally, we enjoy the dramatic entrance that distinguishes the modern Japanese bar from the traditional kappou counter, adding an air of mystique to the entire experience. Each design detail is carefully crafted to create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that will leave a lasting impression on all who enter it.

What other features are you most excited about?

There are several. One is the poetic handling of the statement lamppost, which, combined with a symbolic moon, creates a sense of wonder and magic from various angles. We’re also thrilled about the real bamboo-made washi that casts a mesmerising, web-like visual effect in the sunlight. There’s also a dandelion motif in various spots that adds a delicate touch to the overall design and ambience. All these elements come together to create an immersive experience that’s beautiful and enchanting.

Images by Steven Ko Interior Photography