RESTARAUNT DESIGN
RESTARAUNT DESIGN
MAIN COSINA
COURSE: ARTI 240: CONCEPT TO PRODUCTION IV DATE: SEPT-DEC 2023
Main Cosina is more than just a restaurant—it is an immersive journey through time and space, transporting guests to the grandeur of 19th-century tropical expeditions and the rich natural beauty of Belize. Designed as part of my second-year studio course, this project focused on spatial storytelling, materiality, and atmosphere, weaving together historic opulence and contemporary allure to create an unforgettable dining experience.
The challenge of this project was to balance luxury with authenticity, crafting an environment that feels both expansive and intimate, refined yet deeply connected to the rugged romance of exploration. By integrating scale, symmetrical balance, rhythm, and emphasis, the design achieves a harmonious interplay between structured elegance and the organic textures of the tropics.
Opulent Materiality & Historic Inspiration: The interior evokes the grandeur of luxury travel compartments with rich, dark wood finishes, weathered metals, and curated artifacts. Aged maps and explorer’s memorabilia recount the stories of adventure, immersing diners in a world of discovery.
Symmetry and Rhythm in Spatial Planning: The dining area is a grand composition of balance and repetition, with elements like wooden booths, suspended lighting, and intricate metal railings creating a rhythmic flow that guides movement and enhances the visual depth of the space.
Layered Experiences & Hidden Spaces: Beyond the main dining area, guests can venture into a concealed passage leading to a secret lounge—a moody, jewel-toned sanctuary inspired by Belize’s hidden gems. This area features a play of light and shadow, deepening the sense of mystery and intrigue.
Sustainable Grandeur: While the design prioritizes opulence, it also embraces environmental responsibility. Upcycled and repurposed materials are seamlessly integrated, ensuring that luxury and sustainability coexist without compromise.