Woodstack Chair – Ramen Zundo Sapporo

The Design of Ramen Zundo Sapporo is a Celebration of Contemporary and Traditional Japanese Culture.

Design firm, Tom Mark Henry’s concept for Ramen Zundo Sapporo, a family-run Japanese restaurant in Chatswood Place takes its cues from the restaurant’s name. A zundo is a cylindrical pot traditionally used in the preparation of ramen, and its curved circular forms are echoed throughout the interiors like a homage to the craft of making these beloved Japanese noodles. “Our aim for Ramen Zundo Sapporo was to create a venue that celebrated both contemporary and traditional aspects in Japanese culture,” shares Carla Matias, design manager of the firm. “We wanted the space to feel dynamic and welcoming and to compliment the food.”

In addition to this bespoke vignette, the firm paired the stackable Woodstack chair in solid oak with the textured two-top table seating. “It was the architectural detailing in the Woodstack that attracted us to it,” says Matias. “We did no extra customisation on the Woodstacks. We liked the way the natural timber finish softened the space.”

Project Ramen Zundo Sapporo
Year 2019
Type Hospitality
Size 140sqm

Photography Damian Bennett

Minimal and modern lighting sets the tone for interiors that are layered with pops of colour and feature an “interplay of elements”. Custom neon signs reminiscent of ones seen throughout modern Japan adorn the walls, as do more traditional Japanese noren. Raw finishes such as concrete, brick, and steel are juxtaposed against a polished mosaic tile bar and textural elements like the charred finish of the traditional shousugi-ban technique are used on a curved custom banquette—in contrast to its smooth leather upholstery. “The custom shape makes the most of the angle of the site and creates a focal point that leads guests through the venue,” explains Matias.