Boku Imbere mu Resitora na Bari by Takahiro Todoroki

Boku Imbere mu Resitora na Bari by Takahiro Todoroki is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2026 Igihembo cya A' Design Award cya Ifeza in Igishushanyo cy'Imbere y'Inyubako Competition Category.

IfezaImbere y'Inyubako· 2026

Boku Imbere mu Resitora na Bari

by Takahiro Todoroki

Client: Engine,inc

Igihembo cya A' Design Award cya Ifeza Winner in Imbere y'Inyubako Category

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Colors

The Design

About Boku Imbere mu Resitora na Bari

Boku ni imbere mu resitora na bari iherereye i Guadalajara, muri Mexico. Iyi dizayini ihuza amahame y'Abayapani yo gutunganya umwanya n'umuco wo mu karere, kandi yashingiye ku biryo byo mu mihanda ya Osaka, aho takoyaki ari yo nsanganyamatsiko nyamukuru. Konteri igoramye ishishikariza abantu kuvugana no guhurira hamwe, naho imiterere y'inkuta yongeraho utuntu dushobora gukorwaho. Amatara amanitse yakozwe mu migano hamwe n'ibikoresho kamere biremera ahantu hafite imiterere isanzwe kandi ishimishije. Igorofa yo hagati (mezzanine) ikoresha neza igisenge kirekire kandi yongeraho uburyo butandukanye bwo gukoresha umwanya. Aha hantu hatangwa ibiryo ku manywa, naho nijoro hakaba bari n'ahakorerwa ibirori.

The Recognition

About the Igihembo cya A' Design Award cya Ifeza

Boku Imbere mu Resitora na Bari ni uwegukanye Igihembo cya A' Design Award cya Ifeza, ishimwe ridasanzwe ry'agaciro gakomeye ritangwa ku bishushanyo byo ku rwego rwo hejuru, byiza kandi bikora ku mutima. Abegukanye Ifeza ni ibihangano by'ubuhanga bukomeye kandi bifite guhanga kwinshi, bigaragaza ubuhanga bwimbitse, impano n'ubushishozi bw'ababihanze. Boku Imbere mu Resitora na Bari biteganyijwe ko izaba igihangano cy'icyitegererezo, gifite ubunyamwuga bukomeye n'udushya twimbitse. Iki gishushanyo cyegukanye Ifeza ni igihangano kizwi kandi gishimwa, gifasha kugura imbibi z'ubuhanzi, ubumenyi, ubushushanyo n'ikoranabuhanga. Boku Imbere mu Resitora na Bari ni igihangano benshi bifuza, gikangura ibyifuzo, gitanga amarangamutima meza kandi gitera igitangaza.

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