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In the trendy Mexican city of Queretaro — about 200 kilometers northwest of the capital — this new space not only plays the game of opposites through its design, but also reflects the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which consists of finding beauty in imperfection.
Nama Sushi in Queretaro, Mexico
Throughout this restaurant, called Nama, the mix between light and dark, as well as smooth and rough, achieves a subtle balance.
The large wooden grid-like ceiling structure evokes a Zen-like ambiance throughout the dining room. (RAFAEL GAMO)
Claudia Ornelas, Interior designer
Interior designer Claudia Ornelas started by creating a neutral backdrop with aged and stained oak while an oak veneered wood structure was built for the ceiling according to Japanese assembling techniques.
She worked with craftsmen from different Mexican regions to develop specific finishing and textures.
The wall texture is reminiscent of the ring layers within a wooden trunk. (RAFAEL GAMO)
Copper Lamps by La Mexicana Galeria
For example, the circular copper lamps by La Mexicana Galeria placed above the tables were made by artisans from the west of the country with a special hammering that gives the metal an almost textile quality.
Experts from the state of Guerrero worked on the undulating and palm woven panels in red tones that adorn the staircase and showcase the Japanese technique of suminagashi.
On the floor, Oxford Gray granite with leather finish and oak were used to separate the nigiri bar area, which is the most important feature of the 222 sqm space where diners can observe how food is prepared.
The Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi means allowing the natural materials to showcase their unique beauty without being overly retouched. (RAFAEL GAMO)
Relaxing Ambience Interior Design
“We wanted to create a relaxed space with several atmospheres,” says Ornelas.
“We achieved this by configuring the restaurant with different heights, which resulted in different settings due to their shapes, dimensions and how they bathe in light. For the booth area, we opted for linen upholstery with loose cushions to provide comfort.”
La Tabla, D’Gabos and AR Taller de Diseño did the carpentry, Dei Domotic took care of the general lighting and Telas de Pani is behind the textiles, to name only a few artisans.
The handmade copper pendant lamps above the tables add an artisanal touch to the interior. (RAFAEL GAMO)
Restaurant Bench Seating
Connecting the interior and exterior and giving the feeling of being on a terrace while simultaneously sitting inside were other keys for Ornelas.
She made them possible by incorporating a continuous linear seat that runs the entire length of the façade and is delimited by a planter, while sliding windows allow the natural light and breeze to come in.
Chic yet inviting, this new restaurant blends a variety of references to create a one-of-a-kind look and feel where handmade elements give character to the whole space.