Ichi-Go Ichi-E: A Pan-Asian Zen Oasis in Kazan

Pin0 LinkedIn0Shares0

Located in Russia’s city of Kazan, Ichi-Go Ichi-E is a pan-Asian zen oasis designed by a Japanese architect, Yusuke Takahashi, in collaboration with IDEOLOGIST. Embracing the Japanese philosophy of “Ichi-Go Ichi-E,” which celebrates the uniqueness of every moment and encounter, this restaurant strives to make each visit a remarkable and singular experience.

It is a pan-Asian cuisine destination that draws its design inspiration from diverse Asian cultures, articulated through a beautifully curated aesthetic that defies simple categorization into any single national style.

The project, managed by IDEOLOGIST, a conceptual architecture and design bureau with strong connections to Japanese architects, artists, and craftsmen, covers all aspects from design decisions to lighting scenarios, music, and staff attire.

The journey began with a quest for authentic pan-Asian essence, exploring sacred capitals of Buddhist schools, the affluent Japan of the 1980s, nocturnal Hong Kong, and futuristic Singapore. For over a decade, IDEOLOGIST has been inspired by the culture and aesthetics of Japan. The team’s close collaboration with meticulous Japanese artisans has led to an architecture that enhances the overall experience.

Upon entering, guests are greeted by a corridor reminiscent of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its arched wooden structure in deep crimson and gravel stepstones evoking a temple’s torii gate. This architectural gesture transitions visitors from the ordinary to the extraordinary, setting the stage for a sensory culinary journey.

The main dining hall features a harmonious blend of diverse elements centered around a striking focal point: a central column with a 360-degree multimedia projection. This design not only anchors the space but also enhances the communal atmosphere, drawing diners together in shared wonder. The visibility of the open kitchen from nearly all seating areas adds a performative element, akin to Kabuki theatre and the intimate chef-guest dynamic of traditional Asian eateries.

Yusuke Takahashi, the Japanese architect behind Ichi-Go Ichi-E’s design, aimed to create an attractive interior with an Asian theme without adhering strictly to any one national style. Guided by Zen Buddhist philosophy, the restaurant subtly incorporates Japanese influences through its composition, layout, natural wood colors, and materials.

The restaurant’s lighting avoids conventional street and general illumination, opting instead for a series of light scenarios that use temperatures conducive to relaxation. Each zone has its own lighting scheme, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the dining experience without distraction.

In crafting the decorative elements, the restaurant collaborated with artisans from Saint Petersburg for origami-inspired paper lanterns, while all the furniture, except for the chairs, was custom-made by carpentry workshops in Kazan. This ensured harmony with the overall design concept and supported local craftsmanship and sustainability.

The use of traditional Japanese washi paper, innovative concrete volume tiles, and various decorative plasters introduce a range of textures and shades into the space. From cold to warm tones and geometric to natural reliefs, these materials create a richly layered and engaging environment. Concrete stepstones with rounded pebble accents on the floor complement the overall aesthetic, bridging the gap between urban sophistication and the understated beauty of nature.

Ichi-Go Ichi-E Restaurant & Bar embodies the philosophy of making each moment count through a harmonious blend of architectural excellence, innovative design, and deep respect for cultural traditions. It invites guests to a unique dining experience that leaves a lasting impression, echoing the essence of “Ichi-Go Ichi-E” with every visit.