Cosy Japanese aesthetics for Canadian noodle bar

Found at the eastern end of Calgary’s 17 Avenue commercial strip, a noodle bar called ‘Lonely Mouth’ will transport hungry travellers into the heart of Japan through architecture by Canadian studio Frank Architecture.

This cosy vibe is achieved through the use of panelling, low lighting and corduroy-upholstered chairs.

GALLERY  

“Lonely Mouth is a place where tradition meets innovation,” said the team at Frank Architecture. “They offer a carefree and interactive dining experience, featuring a dynamic and playful menu with modern and energetic flavours.”

For the interiors, the designers chose a warm palette of green and brown tones, along with textured plaster and soft upholstery to create an intimate atmosphere. A screen of wooden dowels divides the bar and dining spaces, adding to the sense of intimacy. The restaurant’s noodle maker can be seen working in the bar area, allowing guests to watch their food being prepared.

Shelving behind the bar, which displays the sake collection, was built using wood salvaged during the renovation of the space. Wood panelling above is decorated with works by local artists Rhys Douglas Farrell, and Harry Kiyooka, who died aged 94 earlier this month.

“Inspired by Japanese minimalism, the interior takes a ‘less is more’ approach,” the team said. “The design is very restrained.”

Wooden tables form rows beside the banquettes, with an additional line through the middle of the room. Diners at these central tables sit on chairs covered in brown velvet corduroy, while other seats are upholstered in green fabric.

A trio of spherical, paper pendant lamps cast a dim glow into the restaurant, assisted by spotlights, fringed table lamps and candles in setting the mood. “Light levels are dimmed and offer a soft, even glow to diners,” the team said.

Then name Lonely Mouth bar and restaurant comes from a reference to the Japanese concept of kuchisabishii, which means “when you’re not hungry, but you eat because your mouth is lonely”.

Images by Chris Amat via Dezeen

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