The experts behind sushi brands Sushi & Nori, Marae Izakaya and Sushi Hon approached The Bold Collective looking to create a new “grab’n’go” concept under the name Sushi Canteen in an underground location near Town Hall Station. The brief was broad and exciting. The client wanted us to draw on the energy, colour and craziness of Harajuku.

We began looking at the characters that are drawn to this world famous area in Tokyo and we extracted inspiration as much from the fashion as the built environment. The layering of pattern, pop colours and bold attitude all informed the diverse selection of colours and finishes.

An oversized acrylic scallop across the counter front is a tribute to the number of frilly skirts (and long socks!) seen in Harajuku. We also realised the notion of a “canteen” through a tilt lift window and exposed bi-fold doors. We collaborated with graphic designer Danny Wehbe and street artist Andrew Dennis to develop comic, pop graphics throughout.

Existing low ceilings, services constraints and a tight timeframe challenged us throughout this project however the end result is a vibrant, fun, quirky and memorable new sushi experience in Sydney.

Design: The Bold Collective
Photography: Andrew Worssam