Korean-Japandi Restaurant Design Narrative

We moved away from typical couple-centric seating to focus on group dining, which is central to Korean culture. This sunken seating arrangement, or "jwadak," encourages sharing and connection, making the meal a truly communal event.

This traditional floor seating area features a striking yellow canvas wall inspired by layered Korean paintings. The custom copper chimney is a functional necessity for in-table grilling that we designed as a sculptural element, blending utility with aesthetic grace.

A closer view of the sunken dining nook at Seoul. The design combines warm wood flooring, concrete-finish walls, and curated cultural artifacts like framed fans to create a space that feels both modern and deeply rooted in heritage.

Natural light floods this corner of Seoul, highlighting the contrast between the smooth concrete walls and the warmth of the wooden architecture. The sunken table overlooks the outdoors, offering a serene dining experience that connects guests with nature.

Another perspective of the sunken seating, showing how the space is designed for comfort and intimacy. The low table and floor cushions create a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for long conversations over a shared meal.

This wider view showcases the restaurant's layout, with its series of wooden-framed booths. The design creates semi-private zones for groups while maintaining a sense of openness and connection to the rest of the space.

We incorporated traditional Korean art, like these hanging scrolls and masks, to infuse the space with cultural identity. These elements, set against the clean lines of the wooden booths, create a beautiful dialogue between heritage and modernity.

A framed map of Seoul hangs as a central art piece, reinforcing the restaurant's identity. The combination of soft blue upholstery, warm wood, and curated decor makes this booth area feel both cozy and culturally rich.

The booth seating at Seoul provides a comfortable and intimate setting for diners. The design uses a simple material palette of wood and fabric, accented by traditional Korean artwork to create a welcoming and authentic atmosphere.