Dubai, UAE – September 2024 – 4SPACE Design is celebrating a remarkable year in the design industry. At the recent CID Awards 2024: MENA, the firm won the prestigious Interior Design of the Year: F&B Casual award for its stunning work on the Japanese restaurant AKABEKO. Additionally, their project Moli by Shi received a Highly Commended trophy in the Interior Design of the Year: F&B High-end category.
This recognition adds to the firm’s impressive achievements, including the “Best Bar/Lounge Design” award for Agora and “Best Bathroom Design” for the washrooms at Moli by Shi. With the innovative guidance of co-founder and creative director Firas Alsahin, 4SPACE continues to redefine the limits of design.
AKABEKO: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
The design of AKABEKO at Voco, Dubai The Palm Hotel draws inspiration from the Akabeko cow, a symbol of vitality and resilience in Aizu folklore. This cultural homage is woven into the restaurant’s name and aesthetic, creating a rich narrative that resonates with guests.
Awarded Interior Design of the Year: F&B Casual, AKABEKO introduces an innovative yakiniku dining experience that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese elements with contemporary design. The overall aesthetic embraces the philosophy of wabi-sabi, an appreciation for the beauty of imperfection and the transient nature of life.
The interior showcases textured black walls that contrast beautifully with warm wooden accents, crafting an inviting and balanced atmosphere. Subtle, indirect lighting enhances the richness of the materials, allowing for a dynamic ambience that shifts with the mood of the evening.
A standout feature is a striking red Akabeko cow statue, 3D printed by Proto 21, which adds a cultural focal point and deepens the restaurant’s thematic resonance. The integration of advanced smokeless grills allows guests to savor the cooking experience, with chefs guiding them in a culinary performance that engages all the senses.
A Rich Tapestry of Culture
Cultural elements flourish in AKABEKO, from the presence of bonsai trees to sophisticated wall patterns that weave a dynamic visual story. The Marble Granule flooring from Colortek elevates the space’s refined aesthetic, further enhancing the overall dining experience.
The thoughtful spatial arrangement of AKABEKO ensures both privacy and social interaction. Booths and tables are strategically placed to foster intimate dining while maintaining a connection to the vibrant atmosphere around them. This careful layout promotes comfort and enjoyment for every guest.
Emphasizing environmental responsibility, the design incorporates natural materials and energy-efficient technologies, aligning the project with contemporary values of sustainability and ethical consumption.
4SPACE Design’s triumph at the CID Awards highlights its unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence in the hospitality sector, setting a new standard for future projects.
