TACUBO SHIROKANEDAI by MASTERD co.,Ltd (Japan)
In the quiet streets of Shirokanedai, Tacubo’s new flagship space redefines the dialogue between food, place, and memory. Designed by MASTERD Co., Ltd., under the direction of Futoshi Masuda, the restaurant moves away from conventional luxury and instead embraces a primal, earthbound narrative.
Every surface—walls, floors, ceilings, counters—is wrapped in earthen materials, transforming the dining room into a contemporary cave. At its heart, a wood-fired oven and a glass-walled cellar holding more than 1,300 bottles of wine act as a modern hearth, evoking the timeless gesture of gathering around fire.
MASTERD’s vision is not simply aesthetic; it is a multi-sensory choreography. From hand-blown glass vessels to music composed from the sound of firewood, and tableware etched with the imprint of human hands, every element deepens the intimacy of the dining experience. This is not design as backdrop—it is design as storytelling, weaving together texture, sound, and ritual into an atmosphere of rare cohesion.
The result is a space where contemporary sophistication and primal simplicity meet. Tacubo Shirokanedai is less a restaurant than a reimagined landscape of dining, a place where food, fire, and earth are reframed for the modern city. By stripping away ornamentation and focusing on material honesty, MASTERD crafts an environment that feels both raw and refined—a new compass for Japanese spatial design.
Wanmo's upgraded location in Shanghai targets a youthful, tech-savvy demographic, particularly workers and students, by offering a unique dining experience. The design emphasizes social interaction and communal dining, encouraging a shared experience that goes beyond typical restaurant settings. The interactivity of the space, with its visually stimulating features and engagement-driven layout, creates an environment ripe for social media sharing and online buzz, enhancing the restaurant's visibility. The brand's thematic approach, combining high-tech design with the allure of interstellar exploration, aligns with current consumer trends toward immersive and experiential dining, boosting its appeal and commercial potential.
Sustainability is subtly embedded in the design, both in material choices and the creation of a dynamic environment. The use of recycled and durable materials like stainless steel and red sandstone ensures longevity while maintaining aesthetic appeal. The integration of natural lighting through large glass windows reduces the need for artificial light during the day. The design's focus on spatial flow and energy-efficient elements creates a sustainable, enjoyable dining experience. Additionally, the concept's reliance on culinary artistry—where fresh, seasonal ingredients are prepared in front of diners—minimizes waste while enhancing the connection between food, people, and the environment.
