The unlikely combination of two diverse cultures has been merged harmoniously in the interior of the Ikibana Paral in Barcelona, Spain. Specialising in Japanese and Brazilian fusion cuisine, the design concept for the interior posed a challenge for the multidisciplinary practice of El Equipo Creativo. This challenge was met and realized by taking into consideration the exuberance, color and movement of the Brazilian culture and the laid back minimalistic harmony of the Japanese culture. The common ground was found through the landscapes of these two countries, the lush greenery and color of Brazil which influences the lives of its people and the constant references to landscapes within Japanese art.
The restaurant space is a virtual landscape, the enclosures of groups of tables becoming islands, the bars and kitchens distributed throughout the space as topographical features and the constant flow of people in the spaces between. The Japanese culture of flower arranging by using elements of flowers, leaves and wood is Ikibana, the name of the restaurant and the inspiration of the balanced design of the materials used. Flower arrangements stand in windows in place of curtains, the petal shaped tables in delicately contrasting shades may be placed in an infinite number of configurations.
What stands out most of all within the design is the spectacular sculptured ceiling, a stunning art installation which represents the intertwined branches of a tree. Its gently curving form with concealed lighting casts shadows on every surface adding to the energy of the space which represents the designers’ well thought out interpretation of a mutual element of two very different cultures.
