Ri Sushi

The site is located in Gangshan, Kaohsiung, and transforms the client’s private residence into a sushi restaurant. The couple returned from Taipei to their hometown, aiming to blend the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship with the warmth of home. Drawing inspiration from their travels in Japan’s Shikoku region, the designer incorporated the imagery of bincho charcoal and traditional roof tiles to define the style. Merging tradition with contemporary elements, the design conveys a narrative imbued with Japanese aesthetics and familial sentiment. The most iconic feature of the space is the L-shaped counter and back wall, both crafted entirely from solid wood. As the brand positions itself as a premium Japanese restaurant, the use of solid wood in all food preparation areas helps reduce food safety concerns. The counter serves dual purposes—for food preparation and dining—and features a chamfered corner, softening the flow and visual transition while enhancing intimacy at the seating area. On the wall, a niche was carved out from the building’s original structure to install shelves and metallic artistic finishes. Indirect lighting highlights the display of knives and sake bottles, creating a sense of rhythm and professionalism.

At the entrance, rows of hand-drilled roof tiles were assembled piece by piece. The tiles, each delicately perforated and joined with fine wire, form a fish-scale pattern—evoking both the texture of sushi and the aesthetics of sashimi. Sunlight filters through the tiny holes, casting rhythmic reflections that make the interior’s play of light a striking landmark on the street corner.