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Perched inconspicuously on a street corner in Fukuoka, Japan is a tiny sushi restaurant with a glorious makeover story. Formerly a rundown dry cleaning shop, the 250-square-foot Sushi Takigawa has been transformed into a bunker of wood and warmth for the ultimate minimalist dining experience.
Architecture firm Case-Real retained the original angular shape of the structure but replaced the beat-up facade with an off-white stucco. It opted for no windows and a clean wood door that’s invitingly illuminated at night.
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Inside, the small space is clad in wood. Its centerpiece is a large curved ginkgo wood countertop that encases the chef as he prepares the sushi. Behind the countertop a curved clay wall is made from the same material as the ceiling, creating a subtle contrast to all the wood.
The space is intentionally sparse—All of the mechanical systems are hidden in the ceiling, while the cooking supplies and utilities take shelter underneath the counter. The effect is one of stunning simplicity and serenity. Just add fresh fish.
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