Makisu

Ncbham has been working closely with Makisu founders since the very beginning, translating their food vision into restaurant design, bringing Californian sunshine into Japanese traditions. Makisu has transformed the sushi scene in Belgium, not only by bringing a new twist to classic recipes, but also by developing menus that are accessible to a wide range of people, including teenagers. ncbham translated this unique approach into its design language, creating youthful, dynamic and playful spaces. Makisu Liège, in Belgium, is their fifth outlet. After exploring traditional Japan, the Californian lifestyle and the islands of the Pacific Ocean, Makisu continues his journey and takes inspiration from the Koinobori, carp-shaped windsocks traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Children’s Day. The wooden structure perpetuates the universe of Makisu and its spatial reference to the traditional makisu (巻き簾), a mat woven from bamboo and cotton string that is used in food preparation, but the added wave brings Japanese kites to life. Areas of the boards are painted, with a different pattern on each side, to add movement and draw the eye differently depending on where the user is sitting. Computational design was central in conceiving the fully organic wooden envelope that floats elegantly in the space. The parametric work not only allowed to define the most aerial curves, it also created a cutting plan for the different pieces of wood making up the lattice, for the most sustainable design possible. This innovative approach aims to optimise the use of resources and to simplify production and construction through technology. The restaurant has a capacity of 70 covers and can reach a table turnover rate of 4 per evening, so it was essential to imagine a modular space with fluid circulation, where guests can sit back and enjoy their meal in a very lively environment. Acoustics are mastered through the wooden structure, which breaks the sound waves.