Boku Chav Ua Noj thiab Chav Haus Dej Sab Hauv Tsev by Takahiro Todoroki

Boku Chav Ua Noj thiab Chav Haus Dej Sab Hauv Tsev by Takahiro Todoroki is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2026 A' Design Award Nyiaj in Tsim Chav Sab Hauv thiab Kev Nthuav Qhia Competition Category.

NyiajSab Hauv· 2026

Boku Chav Ua Noj thiab Chav Haus Dej Sab Hauv Tsev

by Takahiro Todoroki

Client: Engine,inc

A' Design Award Nyiaj Winner in Sab Hauv Category

14,023

Verified Award Winner

Verify Award Status for #183326

Visit Site View at A' Design Award Press Release Award Badge

Colors

The Design

About Boku Chav Ua Noj thiab Chav Haus Dej Sab Hauv Tsev

Boku yog ib qhov kev tsim sab hauv rau khw noj mov thiab chaw haus dej nyob rau Guadalajara, Mexico. Qhov kev tsim no muab cov hauv paus ntsiab lus ntawm kev npaj chaw ntawm Nyij Pooj los sib xyaw nrog kab lis kev cai hauv zos thiab tau txais kev tshoov siab los ntawm zaub mov txawv kev ntawm Osaka, uas muaj takoyaki ua lub ntsiab tseem ceeb. Lub rooj txais neeg uas nkhaus txhawb kom neeg sib txuas lus, thiab cov nqaij phab ntsa uas muaj txheej ntxiv qhov kev kov paub rau qhov chaw. Cov teeb xyoob dai saum ntuj thiab cov khoom ntuj tsim ua rau muaj huab cua zoo li ntuj tsim. Ib txheej mezzanine siv qhov qab nthab siab thiab ntxiv kev siv tau ntau yam. Qhov chaw no muab zaub mov thaum nruab hnub thiab hloov mus ua chaw haus dej thiab chaw ua koob tsheej thaum hmo ntuj.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award Nyiaj

Boku Chav Ua Noj thiab Chav Haus Dej Sab Hauv Tsev yog tus yeej ntawm A' Design Award Nyiaj, ib qho kev lees paub muaj meej mom heev tshaj li qub uas muab rau cov qauv tsim qib siab, zoo nkauj thiab ua rau neeg xav tsis thoob. Cov neeg yeej Nyiaj yog cov haujlwm ci ntsa iab heev thiab tsim tshiab heev uas qhia txog kev paub, kev txawj ntse thiab kev ntse ntawm cov kws tsim qauv. Boku Chav Ua Noj thiab Chav Haus Dej Sab Hauv Tsev xav tias yuav yog ib qho haujlwm zoo kawg nkaus uas tsim rau qhia, tshaj lij heev thiab tsim tshiab tob. Cov qauv tsim yeej A' Design Award Nyiaj no yog ib qho khoom tsim uas pom tseeb heev thiab neeg qhuas uas pab tau thiab nthuav dav ciam teb ntawm kev kos duab, kev tshawb fawb, kev tsim qauv thiab thev naus laus zis. Boku Chav Ua Noj thiab Chav Haus Dej Sab Hauv Tsev yog ib qho khoom tsim uas neeg coob xav tau, uas ua rau xav, coj kev xav zoo thiab ua rau xav tsis thoob thiab xav paub.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: This project merges Japanese spatial philosophy with the local culture of Mexico, avoiding superficial Japanese style design. Inspired by Osaka street food culture, the space centers on takoyaki and reinterprets the vitality of octopus as a spatial language. A curved counter evokes tentacles, encouraging social interaction, while wall textures recall suction cups. Suspended bamboo lighting and natural materials create an organic atmosphere. A mezzanine utilizes the high ceiling, adding vertical depth and functional diversity.
Dimensions & Packaging: Total area: 128 sqm. Ceiling height: 4500 mm. Structure: steel frame. Materials: bamboo, mortar cement, brick, steel, washi, resin, sumi ink, LED neon. Ceiling: brick finish with clear coating. Floor: pigmented mortar with urethane coating. Walls: brick and painted surfaces with artwork. Lighting: 50 lux ambient, 100 lux table, 2700K. Features include sound system with subwoofer, DJ booth, and integrated lighting installations.
Tags: Bar, Mexico, Japanese, Restaurant, Takoyaki, Tequila, Bamboo, Sake, Guadarajara,
Production Technology: The design process translated traditional Takeakari into a modular ceiling system using parametric modeling and digital fabrication. Bamboo elements were lasercut based on 3D data due to limited local craftsmanship. Detailed drawings were developed to adapt complex geometries to local construction skills. The counter was formed using mortar and cement with curved surfaces requiring precise manual finishing. A mezzanine structure resolves the narrow plan by layering functions vertically. Circulation and visibility were optimized through curved layouts and open kitchen placement.
Design Challenge: The main challenge was bridging the gap between complex design intent and local construction capabilities. Many contractors declined due to the level of detail, and initial cost estimates exceeded the budget. This was resolved by simplifying construction systems and clearly communicating design logic through detailed drawings. Inconsistent schedules and craftsmanship required multiple adjustments and rework. Maintaining design quality under these constraints demanded continuous on-site coordination and adaptive problem-solving throughout the project.
Research: This is an applied spatial design research. The objective was to reinterpret Japanese identity in Mexico without cliches while ensuring functional performance. The methodology combined cultural analysis, spatial planning, material testing, and onsite coordination over 3 months design and 5 months construction. Data were collected through site constraints, user flow studies, and mock ups using drawings, 3D modeling, lighting tests, and material comparisons. Experiments included bamboo lighting and steel hand lights. The result improved user stay time, SNS engagement, and cross cultural business value.
Inspiration: The project was inspired by the fusion of Japanese highball culture and takoyaki, aiming to redefine Japanese identity outside Japan. Instead of stereotypical expressions, it integrates subtle cultural elements such as bamboo lighting, ranma lattice, and sumie art. Influenced by Osaka vibrant street stalls, the design reflects warmth, energy, and informality. Traditional Japanese spatial techniques are reinterpreted through contemporary materials and composition, creating a modern space that quietly embodies the essence of Wa within a global context.
Project Duration: This project began its design phase in Japan in 2024 and opened in Guadalajara, Mexico, in August 2025.
Operation Flow: The space operates as a restaurant during the day and transforms into a bar and event venue at night. It supports a wide range of users, from individuals to large groups. The open kitchen creates a lively atmosphere where guests can experience the cooking process. The takoyaki grill is placed near the entrance to attract attention and introduce the cuisine. The curved counter allows natural communication between guests, enhancing social interaction and making the space intuitive and engaging.
Image Credits: Photographer : Katsumi Hirabayashi