In the wake of extraordinary success, Leylaty Group recognised the opportunity to expand its renowned Nikkei dining experience to the bustling metropolis of Riyadh. Determined to make a memorable entry into this vibrant market, they sought to recreate the essence of Kuuru while introducing new elements that would resonate with Riyadh’s discerning clientele. The decision to bring this coveted brand to Riyadh was driven by a vision to establish Kuuru as a standout destination in the city's rapidly evolving culinary landscape.
To bring this vision to life, Leylaty Group partnered with Forsite Creative, a leading interior design firm known for its innovative approach, and Acoulite, a specialist in bespoke lighting solutions. This collaboration aimed to ensure that every aspect of the new Kuuru restaurant in Riyadh was meticulously crafted, from the overall architectural design to the finer details of lighting and ambience. The goal was to create a space that not only upheld the brand's prestigious reputation but also pushed the boundaries of what a dining experience could be.
Project Details
Project Name: Kuuru, Riyadh
Brands: LLD, Aero, Artech, Neko, JR Lite, DWC Editions
Completion Date: 2024
Interior Designer: Forsite Creative
Scope: Lighting, Automation
Country: KSA
Situated in the prestigious King Abdullah Financial District, Kuuru Riyadh is a testament to the power of collaboration and creative synergy. The restaurant's design seamlessly blends the rich cultural influences of Japan and Peru, offering guests a dining experience that is as visually captivating as it is gastronomically innovative. Through the combined efforts of Forsite Creative and Acoulite, Kuuru Riyadh has emerged as a culinary and architectural masterpiece, setting a new standard for dining in the region.
Challenges
Complex Lighting Design: The project demanded a lighting design that was both complex and elegant, capable of balancing the distinct architectural styles of Japanese and Peruvian design.
Balancing Illumination: The restaurant required a lighting scheme that provided sufficient illumination for chefs while maintaining a warm and inviting dining atmosphere.
Discreet Lighting: One significant challenge was to make the lighting as discreet as possible, ensuring that it highlighted architectural features without being obtrusive.
Customisable Ambience: The restaurant needed a sophisticated lighting control system that could create different scenes and ambiences tailored to various times of the day and special occasions.
Key Features
Innovative Lighting Design: LED strips and spotlights were integrated within the core framework to create layers of light that highlight the intricate details of the structure and materials used.
Balanced Illumination: The design featured internal and external downlights, discreet indirect LEDs, and vertical lighting elements via mirrors to balance functional and ambient lighting.
Aesthetic and Functional Harmony: High-colour rendering LED sources accurately represented the natural colours of the materials, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
Customisable Lighting Scenes: Thanks to a sophisticated control system, the restaurant’s lighting can be adjusted to create different scenes and ambiences.
Signature Design Elements: The design included a wooden centrepiece inspired by traditional Japanese rattan products, with LED strips and spotlights integrated into the structure.
Solutions
Collaborative Design Effort: Forsite Creative, Acoulite, and Kuuru’s senior management team collaborated closely through multiple design sessions to ensure that the client’s vision was realised down to the smallest detail.
Precision in Lighting Installation: Hidden LED strips and spotlights created light layers, focusing on achieving a harmonious visual impact without compromising functionality.
Optimised Working Conditions: Strategic spotlight placement and vertically lit elements eliminated shadows in the kitchen and sushi counter areas, ensuring optimal working conditions for the chefs.
Entrance and Reception Lighting: The entrance and reception areas were designed with specific lighting schemes to create a welcoming first impression, balancing brightness and tranquillity.
Outcome
The result of this collaboration is a stunning interior that not only enhances the dining experience but also creates a unique ambience that reflects the cultural fusion of Japanese and Peruvian influences. The lighting design balances aesthetic and functional needs, providing chefs and diners with a practical and visually engaging environment. Kuuru has established itself as a standout destination in Riyadh’s competitive culinary landscape, offering an unforgettable dining experience that is both timeless and contemporary.
Ready to create an unforgettable dining experience with innovative lighting and design solutions? Contact us to discover how we can bring your restaurant's vision to life and captivate your guests with a unique ambience.