Judges' Comments
- The jury was impressed with the quiet restraint demonstrated by this project. There is a thoughtful palette of natural materials and a nice sense of handicraft in their detailing that complements and enhances the dining experience.. The woven fabric wall and understated, tasteful lighting were refreshing to see for a restaurant interior. The exterior improvements were also restrained which supports the timeless quality of the interiors theme. The jury felt this project would feel fresh for years to come.
Project Data:
Completion Date: 4/1/2017
Square Footage: 16.259
Building Use: Restaurant
Location: Newport Beach California
Project Description:
Nobu Newport Beach is a two-story restaurant in the newly constructed Lido Marina Village. From the shape of the building and its relationship to the site to metal cladding that is reminiscent of container ports, it is evident that the restaurant belongs to the Marina. In addition to alluding to shipping containers, the black metal standing seam panels are a contemporary interpretation of the board and batten siding used throughout the Marina and a nod to traditional Japanese charred wood cladding. A solid white oak door marks the main entry and hints at the rich material palette within.
Inside, a double height space connects the two floors with a curved wood staircase and a fabric feature wall. The form of the grand stair was inspired by the grand stairs of classic ocean liners like the RMS Queen Mary. Natural light washes down from the elliptical skylight above bringing natural light to the first floor and highlighting the grand stair. The staircase is lit at the edges creating a glow and accentuating the feeling that it is floating. The woven canvas feature wall provides a textured backdrop to the wood stair and serves as an homage to the sailboats populating the marina.
Exposed beams above the first floor dining recall the existing structure. Nautical inspired elements like wood detailing accented with bronze and glass create an atmosphere that is appropriate for the restaurant’s waterfront location. Clean lines and Japanese inspired wood detailing create a contemporary feel that is both stirring and welcoming. The exterior walls on the marina side of the existing building were pulled in, to provide more space for outdoor covered dining. Floor to ceiling windows strengthen the connection between interior and exterior and ensure a view of the marina for nearly every seat in the restaurant.
Sound absorbing acoustical treatments were seamlessly integrated into the second floor ceiling design in order to avoid noisy dining spaces and preserve an intimate feel. Lighting accents in the millwork create subtle glows throughout the restaurant adding to the feeling of intimacy. Nobu is well known for its fine Japanese cuisine and it was our intent to create an equally exceptional space, enhancing the experience of restaurant patrons.
C.O.T.E. | Committee on the Environment
Submitted By: |
Studio PCH |
Design Architect: |
Severine Tatangelo |
Associate Architect or Firm: |
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Landscape Architect: |
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Owner / Developer: |
DJM CAPITAL |
Engineer: |
GRIM & CHEN STRUCTURAL ENG.INC |
General Contractor: |
Shawmut Design and Construction |
Consultant: |
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Photographer: |
DYLAN + JENI |
Nobu Newport Beach
Category
Commercial Interiors
Winner Status
- Merit Award